1. United States
2. Letter

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) plays a vital role in supporting libraries, museums, and cultural institutions across the country. Putting the entire staff on administrative leave and potentially terminating most grants will have severe consequences for these institutions and the communities they serve. Libraries and museums are trusted sources of information, education, and enrichment for people of all ages and backgrounds. They provide access to books, technology, research materials, cultural exhibits, and educational programs that foster learning, creativity, and personal growth. Cutting off federal funding to the IMLS will jeopardize these invaluable resources, particularly in underserved areas reliant on this support. Furthermore, academic research funded by the IMLS advances knowledge across various disciplines, contributing to scientific progress, cultural understanding, and societal advancement. Discontinuing this vital funding would impede intellectual inquiry and limit our ability to address complex challenges and expand human understanding. We urge you to take immediate action to restore funding to the IMLS and reinstate its staff. Protecting the integrity of libraries, museums, and academic research is crucial for preserving our nation's intellectual and cultural heritage, promoting lifelong learning, and fostering an informed and engaged citizenry. These institutions are essential for a thriving democracy and should be shielded from political interference or manipulation.