Last month, a new Executive Order called for the reduction of the components and functions of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to its minimum presence required by law. IMLS is the primary funder of the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s Division for Libraries and Technology. The institute also funds the Library Services & Technology Act, which benefits Madison Public Library directly as part of the South Central Library System.
Madison Public Library is working with library and system directors across the state, colleagues at the American Library Association, Wisconsin Library Association, and Urban Libraries Council, Madison Children’s Museum, and Olbrich Botanical Gardens to advocate for continued IMLS funding.
Amid this uncertainty, the foundation will persist in its backing of library services and programming. We voice our support of the library’s efforts to secure continued IMLS funding and reiterate our mission statement in these uncertain times: We mobilize the Madison community to continuously improve, promote, and support Madison Public Library.
We encourage you to join in on the American Library Association’s Show Up For Our Libraries effort by contacting your elected officials. Please inform them of your ongoing support of libraries and museums at home and across the country. Share a personal story of how the library has touched your life to make the greatest impact.
For tips and more information on getting involved, visit the library’s Advocacy page. We thank you for your ongoing support.