1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent executive order that seeks to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). As a constituent, I urge you to take immediate action to oppose these cuts and ensure continued funding for museums and libraries across the country. The IMLS provides crucial resources to 35,000 museums and 123,000 libraries in all 50 states and U.S. territories, supporting public access to education, culture, and community programs. The proposed reductions to the agency—including eliminating non-statutory programs, slashing its budget, and drastically reducing staffing—would devastate these institutions and the millions of Americans they serve. Research and real-world data underscore the importance of museums and libraries to our society. According to a 2023 report by the American Alliance of Museums, museums contribute over $50 billion annually to the U.S. economy and support more than 726,000 jobs. They are vital economic drivers, attracting tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and providing educational programming for children and adults alike. Similarly, libraries serve as lifelines for communities, offering free internet access to underserved populations, supporting workforce development, and fostering early childhood literacy. A 2020 study by the Pew Research Center found that 78% of Americans believe libraries help them find trustworthy information, and 95% of parents say libraries are important for their children’s learning. The proposed cuts will have real, harmful consequences. Without IMLS funding, children could lose access to afterschool programs, researchers could be denied entry to archives, and entire communities could lose crucial public spaces. This is not just a financial decision—it is a threat to the intellectual and cultural fabric of our nation. I urge you to publicly oppose these cuts and work to secure continued funding for IMLS. Please use your position to advocate for the preservation of our libraries and museums, ensuring they can continue to serve our communities for generations to come. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response on this critical issue.