Save America's Libraries & Museums!

Esteemed Members of Congress:

As an engaged citizen of this country and ardent support of libraries and museums, I write to ask that you oppose the elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, as proposed by the White House budget for FY 2018.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the only federal agency charged with providing support to our nation's hundreds of thousands of libraries and museums. These public institutions are among the strongest bastions of freedom, democracy and equality that this country has. Beyond books, exhibits or dusty collections of historical artifacts, museums and libraries are magical places where we learn to see ourselves and the world around us in new and different ways. These are transformative spaces that enable us to learn, grow and think critically about our society so that we may be informed and active participants.

Defunding IMLS will directly impact libraries and museums across the country, which depend on the agency’s support to carry out their mission of serving Americans of all backgrounds. This, in turn, will cut off millions of people from a critical source of information, and will inhibit the development and basic functions of our country.

Libraries and museums are integral parts of the American social fabric. As someone who cares deeply about this nation and its future, I urge you not only to take action to protect IMLS but also to ensure it receives the funding it needs to carry out its laudable, mandate.

Respectfully,

A Concerned Supporter of America's Libraries & Museums