by Eric Howard, Executive Director of Sno-Isle Libraries
Libraries across the nation operate as part of a collaborative network, with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) serving as the lead federal agency supporting libraries. Recent actions have significantly disrupted IMLS operations, including an Executive Order suspending operations, decisions to terminate existing grant programs, and placing IMLS staff on paid administrative leave, resulting in halted federal support for libraries nationwide. These actions will have far-reaching consequences, especially for smaller, rural, and tribal libraries that rely heavily on federal funding.
While Sno-Isle Libraries does not directly rely on IMLS grants for daily operations, changes to IMLS would resonate throughout our interconnected library ecosystem. The IMLS provides funding support, in big and small ways, for most of the nation’s 125,000 public, school, academic, and special libraries in all 50 states. All libraries benefit from the research and work to develop innovative programs or new skills for library staff.
The library staff at IMLS make libraries across the country better each day and help train library staff in best practices. The Washington State Library utilizes IMLS funding to implement projects and services statewide, including digital learning and public library infrastructure. Two examples are the Washington State Talking Book and Braille Library and the WA Rural Heritage Community Digital Archives. Both are statewide services supported by IMLS grants.
Resources
For more information about IMLS funding and its role in supporting libraries, the following resources may be helpful: