Do you love the Douglas Library?
If you do, it's time to show up for our libraries.
Have you ever received a book via an inter-library loan? Have you ever used Libby to borrow an ebook? These services and more are on the chopping block.
The below is critical reading via the American Library Association.
“On Friday night, March 14, President Trump issued an Executive Order intended to dismantle the only federal agency dedicated to funding library services, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), as well as six other agencies.
What does this mean for libraries?
The intent to undercut and eliminate the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is extremely shortsighted and perilous for the millions of Americans who rely on our public, school, academic, and special libraries. Library funding draws less than 0.003% of the annual federal budget yet has enormous impact in communities nationwide. From technology classes for jobseekers to services for people with disabilities, from library delivery for older Americans to summer reading programs for families, IMLS funding makes a real, concrete difference in the lives of Americans every day. The president’s executive order puts all of those services at risk.
What can I do?
We need every library supporter to show up and make their voices heard. Here are concrete, effective actions you can take now:
Call your Senators and Representatives urging them to overturn the executive order and protect IMLS funding.
Send this action alert to five people in your network.
Write a letter to the editor in your local newspaper explaining why IMLS is important and the impact of federal dollars on communities.
Share your story for ALA’s story collection about the impact of federal funding on your community.
Sign up for future action alerts from ALA.
Read more and take action.
