Studio J owner William Morton photographed today’s ceremonies surrounding the groundbreaking of San Diego’s new downtown Central Library. The site of the new library is directly across the street from the studio, and is visible from our west windows. Plenty of local politicians and VIPs were on hand, a few of which are shown below. Mayor Jerry Sanders led the ceremonies, with VIPs ranging from local city council members to Sen. Christine Kehoe and former Gov. Pete Wilson. Dr. Irwin Jacobs, founder of Qualcomm and a major donor to the library project, spoke to the crowd with his wife Joan. A surprisingly large crowd was on hand, including basketball legend Bill Walton.
 Mayor Sanders greets VIPs and guests downtown |  Donors Irwin and Joan Jacobs speak |
 Gov. Pete Wilson attends the ceremonies |  Mayor Sanders hosts the day's ceremonies |
 VIPs break ground for the downtown Central Library |  Mayor Sanders jokes with NBA star Bill Walton |
