During the 43-unit course here at SJSU, you learn a lot about how libraries are an integral part of their communities. Whether it is an academic library providing resources to a university’s students and professors or a public library providing early literacy programs, libraries are a net positive for their communities. We also learn about the challenges facing libraries, such as book bans, the growing concern of librarian criminalization bills, and trouble with funding. Still, the sudden furlough of all employees of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) felt like getting the rug pulled out from underneath you. According to their vision statement, the IMLS “envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage.” If your local library has been the recipient of a grant, even if it was through the state library, it is likely that the money was distributed by the IMLS.
What will this defunding mean? It means that many of the services provided by museums and libraries across the country may be significantly reduced, if not removed altogether. The IMLS assists libraries in keeping up to date with emerging technologies, such as being able to offer ebooks and e-audiobooks through apps like Libby or Hoopla, or by funding much needed accessibility renovations, so much of what librarians, library workers, and community members love about their local libraries is at risk.
So…what can we do?
- Go to your local library, get a library card, and borrow materials
- Do you already do this? Great! Other ways you can support your library is by showing up for programming and events, looking into what other resources are available to you -maybe your library offers language learning, passport services, or access to free music streaming services
- If you live in an area with multiple libraries in your area, consider getting a library card at all of them
- Talk to the people in your life about how the IMLS defunding will negatively impact us all (not just librarians)
- Call (or email) your local, state, and federal representatives and let them know that this is an important issue.
- Even a single call/email will make a difference, but if you can try to follow up with your representative so they know that you are not letting this go.
- Consider donating to your library
- This can be a donation of your time, money, or materials (such as books, CDs, and DVDs) . It all makes a difference, just make sure you review your library’s policy on donating materials!
Additional Resources
https://www.imls.gov/grants/awarded-grants
https://action.everylibrary.org/saveimls2025
https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/blogs/the-scoop/ala-responds-to-white-house-assault-on-imls/
