The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston underwent a sudden closure, attributed to the unexpected dismissal of federal employees, as stated by the library’s foundation in communication with CNN. Expressing deep concern, the foundation, which provides support to the JFK Library, extended its solidarity to affected personnel and vowed to continue backing their efforts, as well as those of the Library.
A notice affixed to the library’s entrance conveyed the message, “Due to the executive order, the JFK Library will be closed until further notice.” A source with knowledge of the situation informed CNN that staff members responsible for public engagement and fundraising were released, aligning with the Trump administration’s objective to streamline the federal government’s workforce.
The National Archives disclosed plans to reopen the library at 10 a.m. ET on Wednesday, with media inquiries directed to the archives’ representative. This development unfolded shortly following the government’s directive to agencies to carry out layoffs of probationary employees as part of a broader initiative to downsize federal personnel. President Donald Trump also signed an executive order mandating agency heads to prepare for significant workforce reductions.
Despite these actions, the National Archives remained tight-lipped regarding the specific impact on staffing levels at the library. Meanwhile, the White House deferred commenting on the matter upon initial request.
Members of the Kennedy family voiced concerns over the library’s closure, with former Rep. Joe Kennedy III, a grandson of Robert F. Kennedy, attributing the shutdown to federal job cuts. He emphasized the repercussions of shutting down libraries in the name of governmental efficiency, suggesting a lack of foresight in implementing such measures.
Jack Schlossberg, another grandson of John F. Kennedy, criticized the closure, asserting in an Instagram post that it was unrelated to government efficiency. The JFK Library, part of the Presidential Library System comprising 16 institutions, relies on annual federal funding for upkeep and a portion of its staffing expenses.
This report has been supplemented with recent updates provided by CNN correspondents Kerry Rubin and Shania Shelton. To access more CNN news and newsletters, register an account at CNN.com.
