BOSTON (WHDH) - The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston reopened Wednesday after it closed abruptly Tuesday afternoon, citing “the executive order” as the reason for the closure.
At 2 p.m. Tuesday, the museum closed its doors, a spokesperson said.
Guests inside the library told 7NEWS that they were escorted out of the building.
“The security people were just ushering us through, telling us we had to leave, the exhibit was closing,” said Kirsten Peryer, who was visiting the library.
A sign posted on the doors cited an executive order as the reason for the closure. Employees were informed their jobs were cut.
“Just chatted to the security guard, and he said as of 2 p.m., he just said it’s been closed until further notice, so we don’t know,” said Amy Castle and Marsha Young, who were visiting the library. “We are quite shocked.”
The JFK Library Foundation told 7NEWS, “The sudden dismissal of federal employees at the JFK Library forced the museum to close today. As the Foundation that supports the JFK Library, we are devastated by this news and will continue to support our colleagues and the Library.”
The library deferred all questions to the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
The National Archives public and media communications staff soon released a statement, saying, “The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum will be open tomorrow, and the National Archives staff looks forward to welcoming guests, visitors, and researchers.”
Visitors flocked to the library Wednesday in support of the institution.
“Yesterday, when we saw the news that the JFK Library was abruptly shut down, I wanted to bring my 13-year-old son so he could see the importance of learning about history,” one woman said.
“What are we doing for our future generations? How is this making it better if we deny them the opportunity to learn about history?” she continued.
Joe Kennedy, as surprised and confused as anyone else, heard secondhand about both the closure and reopening.
“This is what happens when you shoot and ask questions later,” said Joe Kennedy. “And you govern by the seat of the pants, rather than actually thinking things through. This is what happens when you try to say ‘hey lets balance a budget off the backs of services like libraries.”
Governor Maura Healey expressed her concern, saying in part, “Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s thoughtless crusade has caused an iconic institution and economic driver to close in Massachusetts.”
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu agreed that the library is a city and state staple, and part of our nation’s history that needs to be preserved.
“This is an incredibly important institution for our city,” said Mayor Wu. “Of course recognizing the history that has been made in Boston and the leadership that [has] not only been home grown here, but still reflected in our values, and the actions that we are taking. So, it’s important.”
The National Archives has not commented on how many employees were fired or if they were rehired.
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