1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent executive order to defund the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This decision threatens the very foundation of our libraries, which are essential to the well-being and success of families and communities across Arizona and the nation. The IMLS, established in 1996, has been a cornerstone of federal support for libraries, providing grants and resources that enable libraries to offer critical services. Despite accounting for only a small fraction of the federal budget, the IMLS has had an outsized impact, supporting programs that bridge the digital divide, foster literacy, and provide access to technology and educational resources. The recent decision to defund the IMLS, as part of broader efforts to reduce the size of the federal government, jeopardizes these vital services. Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books; they are lifelines for families. They offer free internet access, job search assistance, and educational programs that help children succeed in school. For families facing financial challenges, libraries provide a safe space for learning, access to technology, and resources like homework help and early literacy programs. They also support homeschooling families by offering curriculum materials, meeting spaces, and community connections. In Arizona, libraries play a particularly crucial role in serving rural and underserved communities, where access to educational and technological resources can be limited. Without federal support, many of these libraries will struggle to maintain their services, leaving families without the tools they need to thrive. I urge you to advocate for the restoration of funding to the IMLS and to champion policies that strengthen our libraries. By investing in libraries, we invest in the future of our communities, ensuring that every family has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.