The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has been a crucial source of funding for public libraries, especially in rural and remote areas. The recent gutting of the IMLS by the Trump administration's executive order cuts will disproportionately impact small towns and villages across the country. Rural libraries rely heavily on IMLS grants for projects, professional development, and even basic operational costs that are not sufficiently covered by limited local budgets. Without this federal support, many struggling libraries may be forced to reduce services or close entirely, depriving communities of vital educational and cultural resources. It is imperative that funding for the IMLS be restored to ensure the survival and growth of public libraries nationwide, particularly those serving underserved populations in remote areas. Libraries are essential institutions that promote literacy, provide access to information and technology, and foster community engagement. Cutting off their primary source of federal assistance would be detrimental to the education and enrichment of millions of Americans. We urge you to take action to reinstate and bolster funding for the IMLS, thereby protecting the invaluable services that public libraries provide to our rural and remote communities.
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