Thu Jan 01 13:40:00 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text, ready for publication:

Headline: Worcester Area Prepares for New Year’s Closures, Modified Schedules

Worcester, MA – Residents of Worcester and surrounding areas should be aware of numerous closures and schedule changes in effect for New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1st.

Most municipal, state, and federal offices will be closed on Thursday. The U.S. Postal Service will not be delivering mail.

Worcester trash and recycling pickup will be delayed. Thursday’s regular pickup will occur on Friday, and Friday’s route will be completed on Saturday.

The Worcester Public Library will also be affected. The main library at Salem Square, along with the Frances Perkins and Great Brook Valley branches, will close at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, December 31st, and remain closed all day Thursday. Other library branches will be closed until January 2nd.

Public transportation will operate on modified schedules. The MBTA Commuter Rail will run on a weekday schedule on New Year’s Eve and a weekend schedule on New Year’s Day. The WRTA (Worcester Regional Transit Authority) will operate on a Saturday route schedule on Wednesday, December 31st, and will have no service on New Year’s Day.

While many banks and the stock market will be closed on Thursday, retail stores and liquor stores may choose to open, so residents are advised to check with individual businesses.

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