Drew University is honored to have been named the official repository of Governor Thomas H. Kean’s personal documents, public speeches, and other materials from his years as Governor of New Jersey (1982–1990) and President of Drew University (1990–2005). In recognition of this extraordinary gift, the lobby of the original Rose Memorial Library has been transformed to create the Thomas H. Kean Reading Room & Gallery. This new room is a fitting tribute to a statesman and educator who rightfully belongs in the pantheon of great American leaders. The architecturally distinguished space provides an eminent setting in which scholars, students, and citizens alike may be inspired by the Governor’s illustrious life and career. In the spirit of celebrated reading rooms such as in the Library of Congress and the New York Public Library, this state-of-the-art section of the library features networked study tables with task lamps; abundant seating, a dedicated computer station for searching and displaying digitized items from the Kean Archives; and custom cabinetry that display materials from the archive as well as artwork, gifts, and memorabilia of special value to Governor Kean. Additional cases will feature items from other special collections of the University, as well as traveling exhibits. We anticipate that the Reading Room will serve as the premier resource for those interested in analyzing and understanding Governor Kean’s inimitable style of leadership.

You can see some Photos from the Dedication of the Kean Room