The Reading Room remains closed at this time. Collections and education staff continue to answer research questions at readingroom@jfk.org.
Featured Titles
When the News Went Live Dallas 1963 by Bob Huffaker, Bill Mercer, George Phenix and Wes Wise. 2007.
When routine coverage of President Kennedy’s visit to Dallas suddenly evolved into reporting a worldwide tragedy, KRLD reporters assumed the duty of reassuring a shocked nation. The authors share their behind-the-scene perspectives as reporters during this watershed moment in broadcast journalism.
Featured Titles
Ruth & Marina by AMS Pictures. 2013.
In this documentary, for the first time in 50 years, Ruth Paine visits the home in which she welcomed Marina Oswald. She recalls her friendship with Marina, Lee Harvey Oswald’s suspicious behavior, the Oswalds’ tumultuous marriage, the murder weapon hidden in her garage, and her memories of one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century.
Featured Titles
Mrs. Paine’s Garage and the Murder of John F. Kennedy by Thomas Mallon. 2002.
Ruth Hyde Paine, a Quaker housewife in suburban Dallas, offered shelter and assistance to a young man named Lee Harvey Oswald and his Russian wife, Marina. For nine months in 1963, Mrs. Paine was so deeply involved in the Oswalds’ lives that she eventually became one of the Warren Commission’s most important witnesses.
Featured Titles
The Mind of Oswald: Accused Assassin of President John F. Kennedy by Diane Holloway. 2006.
This compilation of Lee Harvey Oswald’s words gives insight into why he might have killed President Kennedy. Oswald’s diary, letters, job applications, papers, and books provide many avenues for exploration into his psyche.
Featured Titles
Lee: A Portrait of Lee Harvey Oswald by His Brother by Robert Oswald. 1967.
An intimate and personal biography of Lee Harvey Oswald by his older brother. Robert Oswald describes their childhood, the years prior to and the aftermath of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
Featured Titles
The Kennedy Dream: A Musical Tribute to John F. Kennedy by Oliver Nelson. 2009.
In February of 1967, Oliver Nelson recognized Kennedy’s contributions and assembled a big band to play music in his honor, with taped segments of his speeches as preludes. The music ranges from soulful to jazz, to bop, and the modern big-band sound, reflective of the changing times.