The ALA has put out an alert – We need EVERY library advocate to raise their voice in support of library funding. Take action now, call Congress, and send the letter form created by the ALA here: bit.ly/Call2FundLibraries

Time is running out to Fund Libraries in the next fiscal year. Congress MUST act and include libraries in the next federal budget.

From the link:

The White House proposed a budget for the next fiscal year (FY26) that would eliminate the only federal agency dedicated to library funding, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Members of Congress must demonstrate their support for federal library funding, and the deadline to do so is coming up in mid-May.  

“Dear Appropriator” letters are sent by Congressmembers to their colleagues, urging members of the Appropriations Committees to support funding for specific programs, like libraries. 

As the courts deliberate on the Administration’s attempt to eliminate IMLS, it’s critical that Congress includes funding for this agency in next year’s budget—otherwise, IMLS won’t have any money with which to operate. Similarly, while courts debate the future of the Department of Education, it’s critical that Congress continue funding for Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL), a key program for addressing early literacy. 

Thank you for your support of the Free Public Library System!