[This article was updated on Wednesday, March 19 with new information.]
Late on March 14, President Trump issued an Executive Order that continues the reduction in staff for Federal agencies. One of the seven agencies named in the order is the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the largest source of Federal funding for libraries. The IMLS delivers essential financial support, investigative research, and strategic policy guidance to enhance the work of libraries nationwide.
Many nationally focused organizations have shared ways for those who are interested in staying informed and being a part of the conversation:
- The American Library Association has a Show Up for Our Libraries campaign, which includes tools for advocacy, opportunities to share impactful library stories, and ways to take action. One of those ways to take action is the opportunity to connect directly with legislators through their One Click tool.
- The Association for Library Service to Children has a page that can connect individuals to their representatives, as direct communication via phone and email has been identified as one of the most effective ways to reach legislators about the importance of IMLS funding.
- Continued public awareness efforts, like this one from EveryLibrary, can help the public know how the IMLS impacts their local communities. RAILS will also continue its own public awareness efforts for member libraries and their communities, including Illinois Libraries: Agencies of Impact, My Library Is…, and our new RAILS Numbers That Count campaign, which highlights important services that our member libraries count on.
- The American Alliance of Museums has also put together some valuable resources related to the importance of IMLS.
- On March 18, the American Library Association launched a new FAQ about the Executive Order.
- The Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL), the Public Library Association (PLA), and the Urban Libraries Council (ULC) released a joint statement calling on members of Congress to affirm the value of libraries.
In times of uncertainty, libraries have historically become even MORE important to the communities that they serve. This time is no different. At RAILS, We Connect Libraries, and we will continue to do so with dedication and care for all we serve.