Core Support for ALA statement opposing White House assault on the Institute of Museum and Library Services

We support the American Library Association’s (ALA) statement opposing the Trump administration’s executive order calling for the elimination of library funding. At only 0.003% of the federal budget, the library funding yields an enormous return on investment by helping our nation’s 125,000 libraries and museums serve their communities.   

Eliminating IMLS would have a profound negative effect on the support and growth of those institutions, particularly in terms of funding, innovation, capacity, and community services. This harm would disproportionately impact smaller, rural communities as well as historically underserved communities, limiting access to critical resources supporting teachers, students, job seekers, families, seniors, and community organizations throughout the United States of America. As an organization focused on library leadership, infrastructure, and futures, Core believes that libraries are an investment that make communities and our nation stronger. 

“IMLS provides immense value to U.S. communities by supporting education, preserving culture, promoting digital innovation, contributing to economic growth, enhancing social cohesion, and fostering community access to services.” says Core President Angie Ohler. “It helps ensure that libraries and museums can continue to serve as vital resources that benefit individuals and society as a whole.” 

The Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) provides significant value to U.S. communities in several key ways:

1. Access to Educational Resources: IMLS helps libraries and museums offer educational programs and resources that serve individuals of all ages. From early literacy programs to lifelong learning opportunities, these institutions play a crucial role in fostering a well-educated population. IMLS funding supports initiatives that help communities improve education outcomes and access to learning materials.
   
   
2. Cultural Preservation and Engagement: Museums and libraries are central to preserving cultural heritage and fostering community identity. IMLS supports efforts to protect historical collections, archives, and artifacts, which strengthens community pride and connects people to their cultural history. This helps maintain a sense of identity and belonging.
   
   
3. Promoting Digital Literacy and Access: In an increasingly digital world, IMLS helps ensure that libraries and museums provide access to technology and digital resources. This is particularly important for underserved communities, where access to the internet and technology may be limited. IMLS programs promote digital literacy and access to online educational materials, helping bridge the digital divide.
   
   
4. Supporting Economic Growth: Libraries and museums contribute to local economies by offering free or low-cost services, hosting events, and attracting tourists. IMLS funding allows these institutions to expand their offerings, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and generating economic activity. Museums, in particular, are key drivers of tourism and cultural events that benefit the economy.
   
   
5. Enhancing Social Cohesion: Libraries and museums serve as community hubs where people come together to connect, learn, and share ideas. IMLS supports programs that encourage social interaction and inclusivity, bringing diverse populations together. This fosters a sense of belonging, reduces isolation, and strengthens community ties.
   
   
6. Promoting Access: IMLS is committed to ensuring that all communities, particularly underserved and marginalized groups, have access to library and museum resources. By funding programs that reach rural, low-income, and minority populations, IMLS helps to reduce disparities in access to education, culture, and information.
   
   
7. Encouraging Civic Engagement: Libraries and museums are spaces where people engage in civic life, from attending public meetings to participating in community discussions and cultural events. IMLS supports programs that encourage active citizenship, public discourse, and community involvement, helping to strengthen democratic values and civic participation.
   
   
8. Building Community Resilience: In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or public health emergencies, libraries and museums can serve as critical points of support, providing resources, information, and safe spaces. IMLS funding helps these institutions prepare for and respond to emergencies, strengthening their role in building resilient communities.

Core joins ALA in calling on all Americans who value reading, learning, and enrichment to reach out to their elected leaders to object to the gutting of the IMLS and Show Up for Our Libraries at library and school meetings, town halls, and everywhere decisions are made about libraries.  Core believes in building libraries and library professionals. You can help us build that future too by becoming a supporter of the American Library Association and supporting Core.