Dear Sara ,
On March 14, an executive order was issued calling for a major reduction and/or elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the nation's only federal agency for libraries.
The American Library Association (ALA) has expressed alarm, pointing out that this decision jeopardizes essential library programs nationwide, including early literacy efforts, workforce training, and digital access initiatives. The IMLS also provides funding and research grants that inform best practices, identify emerging trends, and pilot innovative services. You can view the ALA's statement on the executive order here.
For the Cambridge Public Library, the direct financial impact of the proposed IMLS cuts will likely not be significant this year. Currently, the Library benefits from strong support from both the city and state and relies minimally on federal funding. Coupled with your generous contributions, the Library will likely be able to maintain current services, although the future is increasingly unpredictable.
What can you do? Please click here to read the ALA's statement and advocacy suggestions.
We at the Cambridge Public Library Foundation are preparing for National Library Week, starting on April 6th. Now, more than ever, your contributions—to the endowment specifically—will help ensure the Library continues to thrive. I hope you will look for our Spring Appeal information in the coming weeks, both via mail and email.
Thank you so much for being part of the community that cares about the future of our libraries. We are very grateful to you.
