Federal Shutdown Would Affect New Library Opening

The potential shutdown of the federal government — set for midnight, unless Congressional negotiators hammer out a budget deal — would have an impact on the April 9 grand opening ceremonies for the new .

Mayor Joseph M. Polisena said during a recent interview that a planned visit by Susan Hildreth, the national Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, may be cancelled if the federal government ceases operations.

"As long as the government doesn't shut down, she'll be here," Polisena said.

On April 8, Chief of Staff Doug Jeffrey explained that, in the event of a shutdown, visits by the state's Congressional delegation could also be cancelled.

"I think it's going to put all (visits by) federal officials in jeopardy," Jeffrey said, adding that, even if there's a late-night vote tonight, "they'll never get here in time" for the grand opening ceremony, scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday.

Administrative Assistant Janet Whiteley said that all of the Congressional members "have indicated they will make every effort" to attend the ceremony.

"We're hoping for the best," she added.