Archive · 19 May 2025
Libraries Face Cuts After Trump's Order to Dismantle Agency
Imagine libraries getting a surprise cut in their money from the government.
This happened when the Trump administration tried to close down a small agency that gives money to libraries.
Libraries in many states had to stop some services, like lending e-books.
This is because e-books and audiobooks are expensive.
Some libraries even had to let people go.
A few states are fighting back, and they have sued the government to try and get their money back.
Libraries are trying to figure out how to keep providing services for everyone.
Libraries across the U.S. are reducing services due to cuts in federal grants.
The Trump administration suspended federal funding as part of an effort to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).
Some states, including Maine, have laid off staff and halted services like interlibrary loans and e-book programs.
Attorneys general from 21 states and the American Library Association have filed lawsuits against the administration.
E-book and audiobook services are especially affected by budget cuts despite their growing popularity.
- Who
- Libraries, the Trump administration, state governments, and library users.
- What
- Libraries are experiencing cuts in funding, leading to reductions in services.
- When
- March 14th when Trump issued an executive order. Cuts occurred in the following months.
- Where
- Across the United States, including Maine and Mississippi
- Why
- Due to the Trump administration's order to dissolve the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Pro-Funding Advocates
Funding Cut Supporters
Impact of Federal Funding
Pro-Funding Advocates
Libraries rely heavily on federal funding, especially for digital resources, and cuts will negatively impact services.
Funding Cut Supporters
Libraries can manage without federal funding.
- IMLS Annual Budget
- Under $300 million
- States with Terminated Funding
- California, Washington, Connecticut
- California Grant Reduction
- About 20% ($3 million)
- Layoffs in Maine
- 1/5 of staff
- E-book/Audiobook Popularity Increase
- From 19% in 2022 to over 660 million users globally in 2023
- Lawsuits Filed
- 21 states and the American Library Association