The Institute of Museum and Library Services helps keep public libraries and museums running—especially in communities that don’t have many other resources. It’s one of the few federal agencies that directly supports access to books, research, local history, and learning.
Once again, that funding is at risk.
Here’s Where Things Stand
In the past, public pressure and court decisions helped stop attempts to block IMLS funding. The administration tried to withhold those funds. Advocates pushed back, and they were forced to release the money.
That was a win. But the fight isn’t over.
The latest budget bill didn’t affect IMLS. That’s good news. But Fiscal Year 2026 is still undecided, and the House Appropriations Committee is about to begin its markup process:
- Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies meets July 21
- Full Committee meets July 25
This is when key decisions get made. If IMLS doesn’t make it into this budget, it’s gone.
What You Can Do
Call or email the people who have the power to decide. They need to hear how important this is—loudly and clearly.
Need help? Use these talking points.
Breaking News
Updated July 28, 2025. Congress has pushed back its budget discussions on library funding until the first week of September. That delay opens a key opportunity: during the month of August, while members of Congress are in their district offices, supporters can push back effectively.
This is your chance to reach out directly to your representatives—via calls, emails, and especially through local media.
A great way to leverage this is through a short Letter to the Editor (LTE) in your community newspaper. The ALA has prepared everything you need to submit one—see their draft template in this Google Doc.
Why This Matters
Libraries are not just buildings. They:
- Provide free access to knowledge
- Support job search, storytime, research help, and quiet space
- Uphold dignity for every visitor
Without IMLS, many libraries will lose critical funding for:
- Programs
- Staff training
- Infrastructure upgrades
Small towns will feel these impacts first.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Call or email your Congressional representatives—especially while they are in district in August.
- Submit a Letter to the Editor, using the ALA template to explain why federal library funding matters.
- Use local media to amplify your voice and show community support.
- Organize with friends and neighbors—share talking points, tell your stories, spread the word.
How to Engage
- Review the ALA LTE Toolkit
- Write your own LTE or adapt the sample—keep it short, personal, fact‑based.
- Send it early in August to your local newspaper.
- Contact your representatives to make your voice heard before their September return.
Thank You
Thanks to Kelly Jensen at BookRiot for helping to spark this movement and countless advocates pushing for our shared institutions.
The future of IMLS—and the federal support of libraries and museums—remains at stake. With the delay in Congressional budget action, August is your moment. Let’s make every voice count.