Federal library funding rollbacks
Dawsyn Wilson - Copy Editor
The Trump administration recently signed an executive order in March that will limit federal funding to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This executive order impacts the IMLS and six other agencies and intends to eliminate these agencies to the fullest extent the law allows.
Sarah Henderson, the Hewes Library Director, said: “Patrons don’t always understand the breadth of resources libraries provide. It’s well beyond checking out books.” Libraries provide physical and digital books, internet access, streaming services, academic research databases, and other resources for their patrons.
The administration terminated IMLS grants and contracts. IMLS dedicates itself to providing support and funding to libraries and museums, which provide impactful programs and resources to their communities. IMLS grants have funded many library services: inter-library loans, literacy programs, access to databases, and others.
“Libraries are one of the last remaining spaces where you can go and be without the expectation of having to buy something or pay an entrance fee. Libraries are unconditionally welcoming to all,” said Henderson.
On April 7, the American Library Association (ALA) and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) asked a federal judge to halt the administration’s “gutting” of the IMLS. They filed an injunction on April 10 to stop the dismantling while the court considers their lawsuit.
“Visit your libraries and museums,” said Henderson. “Use their resources and attend their programs. People can also help by advocating for them with officials on the local, state, and federal level, stressing the importance and value of their services, services [are] important not just to the individual but to the community.”