On April 22, 1919, Herbert Hoover sent a telegram to Stanford University, offering $50,000 to “collect historical material on war”. This fateful wire detailing his personal contribution, together with its instructions, laid the foundations for what has become the leading repository of knowledge on war, revolution, and peace.

Journey through Hoover’s Past and Present: The Origin and Operations of the Library & Archives

Join the Library & Archives team on the anniversary of the founding of the Hoover Institution for an exclusive tour of the spaces that support the collection, preservation, and accessibility to nearly one million books and more than 6000 archival collections from 171 countries. Meet expert staff and explore the inception and inner workings of the Library & Archives - an invaluable resource for all interested in studying the past, today. 

Journey through Hoover’s Past and Present: The Origin and Operations of the Library & Archives

This event welcomes all Stanford affiliates with a valid Stanford ID

A complimentary lunch will be provided for all attendees following the tour

For more information about the history of the Hoover Institution Library & Archives, click here.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, April 30, 2026 12:00 PM Pacific Time
Hoover’s “Photographic Albums Revealed”: Looking Back and Ahead
Hoover’s “Photographic Albums Revealed”: Looking Back And Ahead
In conjunction with Eastern Europe and Beyond: Photographic Albums Revealed, the Hoover Institution Library & Archives invites you to a webinar… Zoom
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
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Understanding The Civilian-Military Relationship In American Democracy
The Hoover Institution's Center for Revitalizing American Institutions invites you to join us for an engaging conversation on Understanding the… Hoover Institution, Stanford University
Monday, May 11, 2026
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Powering Global Cooperation: Innovation, Security, & Geopolitics In A Changing Energy Landscape
The Hoover Institution invites you to attend Powering Global Cooperation: Innovation, Security, & Geopolitics in a Changing Energy Landscape on… Shultz Auditorium, George P. Shultz Building
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