Plans to slash funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services have drawn swift opposition from library and union leaders as the cuts threaten Michigan’s nearly 400 libraries, with rural areas expected to be hit hardest.
A lawsuit has been filed on behalf of the American Library Association and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees by Democracy Forward and co-counsel Gair Gallo. The suit asks the courts to block the dismantling of the institute, as directed by presidential executive order.
Cindy Hohl is president of the American Library Association.
“Libraries are trusted anchor institutions providing Americans with access to the internet and technology, and especially in small and rural areas where people may not be able to afford those services or access in their homes,” Hohl said.
Around 125,000 libraries across the nation may be affected.
Supporters of the cuts maintain that reducing federal spending is essential for budget efficiency. They believe local governments should take on more responsibility and that cuts will push libraries to find alternative funding and improve efficiency.
The American Library Association has sent a letter urging the acting director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services asking that it not cut federally mandated library programs.
