Statement on the Executive Order to Eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services

Lyrasis is deeply concerned about the Trump administration's recent executive order, Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy, which calls for the dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The order directs the acting IMLS director to take immediate steps to eliminate the agency to the maximum extent allowable by law by laying off staff and cutting programs. These actions present a significant threat to our global community of information professionals, researchers and the public who rely on vital services provided by IMLS.

IMLS, which accounts for only .0046% of the governmental budget, was created by Congress to assure that federal resources are available to improve and support the nation’s public libraries and museums. Our libraries and museums connect people to information and ideas and provide opportunities for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and civic engagement. These institutions are hubs for their communities, providing access to technology, local history, valuable research, professional development and educational resources. Every public library patron has benefited from programs or initiatives funded or supported by IMLS. Eliminating or reducing IMLS will deny people across America access to essential public services and our full collective histories. The loss of IMLS funding will also further inequity by disproportionately harming smaller, rural and historically underserved institutions.

The impact of this order is not limited to the U.S. IMLS has provided guidance and collaboration beyond national borders by influencing global best practices and providing a model for institutions worldwide. Research and policy development efforts led or funded by IMLS have set global standards to promote the free flow of information.

Lyrasis recognizes the invaluable contribution of IMLS in advancing the shared goals of our more than 1,000 members around the globe. We urge the Trump administration to reconsider this decision and we ask policymakers, stakeholders and the global community to advocate for the preservation of IMLS and its mission.

The American Library Association (ALA) and the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) are leading efforts to counter the Trump administration’s attack on the IMLS. We encourage everyone who values libraries and museums to voice their support and join these critical efforts to safeguard the future of our essential institutions.

• Support ALA’s Campaign to Save the IMLS
• Support AAM’s Campaign to Save the IMLS