IMLS Statement on the President's FY 2021 Budget Proposal
Washington, DC—Today, the Trump Administration released details from its budget request to Congress for FY 2021. The White House has requested $23 million in funding for the orderly closure of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, effective October 1, 2020.
As the primary source of federal funding for museums and libraries, IMLS invests in communities of all sizes, from rural to urban, in every U.S. state and territory. IMLS ensures public library services for all Americans, helps preserve the heritage of our nation, and provides critical funding for literacy and workforce development programs.
The agency’s sixth director, Crosby Kemper III, was commissioned by President Trump on January 24. “I’m grateful for the support I received from the White House, members of Congress, and the library and museum communities throughout my confirmation,” said Kemper. “We will continue to engage in the budget process with the Administration. For the remainder of this fiscal year, IMLS will continue our work investing in libraries and museums—those anchors in our communities—and helping millions across the nation tell their American stories.”
IMLS funding has helped veterans transition to civilian life and preserve their personal digital archives. Grant funds have been used to teach coding to kids in rural areas across the country, empowering the next generation for success in today’s world. An IMLS grant made sharing the uniquely American story of jazz in Harlem possible—and inspirational.
Over the years, IMLS grants have helped preserve invaluable Native Alaskan cultural heritage assets for current and future generations. Visually impaired people are now able to read public library materials through new technology and training. Grants have funded Internet hotspot lending and advanced low-cost TV White Space technology to help communities prepare for disasters. IMLS investments have advanced digital inclusion for rural and tribal communities, addressing the K-12 homework gap and other barriers to broadband access for children and families.
IMLS empowers museums and libraries to provide increased access and navigation to information so that more people can continue their education, learn critical research skills, and find employment. Through these and many more projects, federal investments in museums and libraries across the nation have helped transform and uplift the lives of millions of Americans.
For more information, a FAQ page on IMLS FY 2020 operations and the FY 2021 budget request can be found here.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.