Federal funding for libraries
Executive Order to reduce the Institute of Museum and Library Services
An Executive Order was signed by the President on March 14 to reduce to a minimum the functions of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This order cuts federal funding and support to libraries nationwide.
www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/continuing-the-reduction-of-the-federal-bureaucracy
What is the IMLS?
The IMLS is an independent agency of the federal government. It is the primary source of federal support for US libraries and museums, with the mission to “advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development.” It was established by the Museum and Library Services Act of 1996. The new agency combined the former Institute of Museum Services and federal museum programs, which had existed since 1976, with the Library Programs Office and federal library program that had been part of the Department of Education since 1956.
www.imls.gov
How are federal funds used in Michigan libraries?
Federal funds to libraries are appropriated annually by Congress through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the IMLS, and distributed in Michigan through the Library of Michigan (LOM). The LOM uses federal funds for:
The Michigan Electronic Library, a centralized catalog and service for sharing materials among all types of libraries. It includes both interlibrary loan service (MeLCat) and online informational databases (MeL eResources). These services receive 75% of their funding from IMLS and 25% from the state legislature.
Professional development opportunities for library staff and trustees including online and in-person training to stay current on topics in public library offerings, services and management.
LOM programs and grants to support libraries in their efforts to digitize resources, to increase access to their collections, and to provide summer programming focusing on children & teens, literacy and technology.
Membership for all Michigan Library Trustees and Friends to belong to United for Libraries, a national network of library supporters. Membership for all Michigan public libraries in the Collaborative Summer Library Program that provides programming resources.
Can I still use MeLCat?
You are still able to use MeLCat at this time. However, current federal funding to Michigan libraries runs through the end of September only.
Does SBBDL use federal funds?
SBBDL does not receive any direct federal funds, but the library and its patrons use and benefit from state-wide services that are paid for through federal funds. The most recognizable service that is federally funded at SBBDL is interlibrary loan using MeLCat.
SBBDL is directly funded through our locally approved millage, which is the library’s primary source of funding, as well as income from penal fines, state aid to libraries, and donations.
For more information…
These short but comprehensive statements from leading library organizations provide insight into the state-wide and nation-wide impact of this order. They also include links to advocacy resources.
Michigan Library Association’s Statement
The Michigan Library Association (MLA) is a 130 year old association serving the library profession in Michigan. The MLA is a collaborative network of libraries, library professionals and library supporters who are dedicated to advocating for libraries, growing professionally as leaders in the library community and advancing the profession through sharing of best practices, innovative ideas and new programs and services that benefit library personnel, library patrons and the communities we serve.
https://www.milibraries.org/…
American Library Association’s Statement
The American Library Association is the organization that provides national leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and to ensure access to information for all.
https://www.ala.org/news/2025/03/ala-statement-white-house-assault-institute-museum-and-library-services
EveryLibrary’s Statement
EveryLibrary is a nationally recognized political action committee for libraries.
https://www.everylibrary.org/statementimls2025