By John Gregory/Illinois Radio Network
CHICAGO – The location of the Obama presidential library will be near the grounds of the University of Chicago, where President Obama was once an instructor.
The University of Chicago beat out the University of Illinois at Chicago, Columbia University in New York, and the University of Hawaii. The Obamas released a video on Tuesday revealing the announcement.
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-Matteson) says she always believed Obama would pick Chicago in the end.
“I’m thrilled to hear that, and fingers crossed, it sounds like it’s going to be on the South Side of Chicago, so that’s fantastic,” Kelly said. “I’m very happy that a decision has been made.”
Even politicians who disagree with Obama welcome the news.
“I’m not a huge fan of President Obama, obviously, but we have to celebrate his achievement,” said U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Channahon). “I think he’s achieved some great things by being elected president from his background, so it’ll be great to have it here.”
While the University of Chicago has been chosen as the host, it had offered two different sites in existing Chicago parks on which to build the library. Which of those sites is the final pick hasn’t been announced yet.
