Good morning:
Nassau’s public libraries are encouraged to join a statewide advocacy push to fully fund the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) during the last week of August (8/25 – 8/29).
There has been some positive news on this front: Earlier this month the U.S. Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, & Education committee recommended $291.8M in funding for IMLS for the next Federal fiscal year – just about the same funding level as 2025. In addition, the bill language adds emphasis on literacy, workforce development, America 250 efforts, and mentions concerns about library infrastructure.
This is a critical first step in retaining Federal funding for America’s libraries. In September, we expect House committees will make their budget proposals. Since the window to raise awareness is so tight, we need to act quickly.
Several NYS library systems – including SCLS – are planning a week of action during the crucial final days of August. The goal is to educate local library-lovers in a non-partisan way about the importance of Federal support for libraries and encourage them to contact their U.S. representatives and ask them not to defund libraries.
NLS has updated its advocacy website with a call to action inviting folks to find and contact their Federal representatives, along with sample email text.
If you would like more details or to share ideas about this effort, NLS staff will be available for an informal virtual drop-in chat on Wednesday 8/20 at 2 pm: https://v.ringcentral.com/
Take care,
Nicole Scherer
Assistant Director
Nassau Library System
