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

Tuesday, May 19, 2026
taiwan
Taiwanese Support For Self-Defense
The Hoover Institution Taiwan in the Indo-Pacific Region invites you to Taiwanese Support for Self-Defense on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00 pm… Hoover Institution, Stanford University
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
National Treasure by Michael Auslin
National Treasure: How The Declaration Of Independence Made America
The Hoover's History Lab and Center for Revitalizing American Institutions invites you to National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made… Shultz Auditorium, George P. Shultz Building
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Red Dawn Over China
Red Dawn Over China: How Communism Conquered A Quarter Of Humanity
The Hoover Institution invites you to Red Dawn Over China: How Communism Conquered a Quarter of Humanity, a book talk with the author, Frank Dikötter… Shultz Auditorium, George P. Shultz Building
overlay image