Reinstate full funding for libraries, invaluable public resources

To: Sen. Kaine, Sen. Warner, Rep. Cline

From: A constituent in Roanoke, VA

April 3

This administration's shortsighted decision to slash funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is misguided and will deprive countless Americans of vital community resources. Libraries provide far more than just books - they offer internet access, homework assistance, literacy programs, and a safe space for all, especially in underserved areas. Cutting the meager $266.7 million budget (just 0.003% of federal spending) will disproportionately impact students, particularly those in rural districts where 3 in 10 schools lack a librarian. This penny-wise, pound-foolish move ignores libraries' proven role in fostering education and community enrichment. The bipartisan Museum and Library Services Act recognized their importance, allocating funds via population-based state grants and programmatic aid like the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program. Gutting this lifeline deprives citizens of an irreplaceable public good. I urge you to reverse course and reinstate full funding for IMLS to preserve these invaluable institutions and their resources for all Americans.

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