1. United States
2. Colo.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern about the potential indiscriminate staffing cuts at the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and to urge Congress to prevent the administration from moving forward with this damaging approach. IMLS is a small but vital independent federal agency that plays a crucial role in helping museums better serve their communities. Such an agency cannot withstand broad, indiscriminate staffing cuts without significantly diminishing its capacity to support museums nationwide. This agency provides essential funding and guidance for the vast collections of museums across America. Every state is home to museums that explore a wide range of topics--including science, history, culture, and art--through hands-on exhibits, living collections, archives, and more. Historically, museums have played a key role in education, welcoming 55 million students each year, training teachers, and serving homeschoolers. Beyond education, museums are economic drivers. Before the pandemic, they supported over 726,000 jobs annually and generated $50 billion in economic activity. They are also community anchors, supporting youth and senior citizens, serving people with disabilities, and helping veterans heal. Museums cannot do this vital work without the support they receive from agencies like IMLS. Museums serve all people and communities--urban, suburban, and rural. Support for museums is overwhelmingly popular, research shows that: 96% of Americans would approve of lawmakers who act to support museums. 96% of Americans want to maintain or increase federal funding for museums. I urge Congress to stop the administration from implementing indiscriminate staffing cuts at IMLS. Protecting this essential agency is critical to preserving the vital role museums play in education, the economy, and community enrichment across the country. Thank you for your time and consideration.