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“A love of books — of holding a book, turning its pages, looking at its pictures, and living its fascinating stories — goes hand-in-hand with a love of learning.”
First Ladies of the US Laura Bush Full Image

Laura Bush

Laura Lane Welch Bush
Years of service: 2001-2009
Born: 1946

First Ladies of the US Laura Bush Full Image

Laura Welch’s early career as a schoolteacher, then a school librarian, made children’s literacy a priority during her tenure as First Lady. The Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries continues to provide funds to school libraries affected by economic hardship and natural disasters. After the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Laura became “comforter-in-chief” for many Americans. When war began in Afghanistan, she addressed the nation about the Taliban’s mistreatment of women and children. Laura focused on women’s health issues as an ambassador for The Heart Truth, which brought public awareness of women’s heart disease. She also initiated breast cancer research partnerships with other countries around the world.

 

Learn More on Our Legacy Research Site

Leaders in Literacy

4/30/2024 through 4/30/2025

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First Ladies as Teachers, Educators, and Librarians.

The right to an education is a foundational principle of America’s history, and many First Ladies have taken up this cause. We celebrate National First Ladies Day by kicking off this featured exhibit, presented by Huntington Bank.