Take action to save IMLS funding for museums and libraries.

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the efforts by former President Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). As you know, IMLS provides essential funding to museums and libraries across the nation, supporting programs that foster education, lifelong learning, and community enrichment. The proposed elimination of this agency would be a devastating blow to institutions that serve as cornerstones of our communities. IMLS grants enable museums and libraries to develop and sustain programs that support literacy, STEM education, historical preservation, and access to resources for underserved populations. These institutions are not just places of learning; they are safe havens, innovation hubs, and critical sources of information for millions of Americans. Without IMLS, many of these programs will be severely underfunded or disappear altogether, disproportionately impacting rural and low-income communities. Furthermore, eliminating IMLS contradicts the values of education, history, and culture that our nation holds dear. Our libraries and museums preserve the past, engage the present, and inspire the future. They provide crucial services, including workforce training, research support, and public programs that strengthen our society. In an era where misinformation is rampant, these institutions play a vital role in promoting critical thinking and informed citizenship. I urge you to take a stand against these harmful measures and fight for the continued funding and support of IMLS. Please work with your colleagues to ensure that this agency remains intact and continues to provide invaluable resources to our communities. I ask for your leadership in protecting the institutions that safeguard our history, educate our children, and empower our citizens. Thank you for your time and attention to this crucial matter. I look forward to hearing about your efforts to support IMLS and protect our nation’s museums and libraries.