Planning for the building of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum began in December 1963, in the sad days following the death of President Kennedy. From the start, it was the dream of Jacqueline Kennedy that the library would be a place where people could search for historic truth, learn more about politics and government, and reflect on the need to serve the public in some way. She wanted the building itself to be a magnificent work of art celebrating the energy, grace, dignity and boldness that John Kennedy, and those associated with him, brought to the world of politics and public service.