JFK library opens 1st online presidential archive

[January 14, 2011]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- Caroline Kennedy is helping to unveil the nation's first online digitized presidential archive, which includes President John F. Kennedy's most important papers, photographs and recordings.

On Thursday, Caroline Kennedy visited the National Archives and said online access to her father's official records, personal correspondence, telephone conversations and speeches would give a new generation access to the historical record.

The Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston has been working for four years on the $10 million project. Archivists have digitized over 200,000 pages, 1,200 recordings and 300 museum artifacts, as well as reels of film and hundreds of photographs.

Library Director Tom Putnam says it's a resource for young students and the most serious scholars.

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Online:

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum: http://www.jfklibrary.org/

[Associated Press; By BRETT ZONGKER]

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