By AP, KWMU
President Bush says the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is "a great institution" honoring "a great American."
Bush spoke to thousands of people who turned out in Springfield Tuesday for the official dedication of the $145 million institution.
The president says its mix of showmanship and scholarship should help generations rediscover the 16th president whose commitment to freedom embodies "the meaning and promise of America."
Bush took a tour of the museum with first lady Laura Bush before speaking to those gathered outside the museum.
Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich and U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Barack Obama also spoke at the dedication, which wraps up nearly 25 years of effort to establish a Lincoln center.
While the museum and adjacent library are seen as tourist attractions, those who spoke at the ceremony say it will also help ensure Lincoln's legacy for future generations.
To hear a report from Illinois Public Radio's Sean Crawford, click on the 'listen' icon above.