EveryLibrary urges Congress to reject FY2027 proposal that eliminates federal library funding
EveryLibrary, the national political action organization dedicated to defending and advancing public, school, and academic libraries, is calling on Congress and the public to reject the Administration’s FY2027 budget proposal, which includes plans to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the nation’s only source of federal funding and support dedicated to libraries.
Outlined on page 56 of the proposed federal budget, the plan would effectively shut down IMLS, marking a significant departure from decades of bipartisan support for libraries, museums, and archives. These institutions play a critical role in ensuring access to information, preserving history, and supporting education and lifelong learning across the United States.
“This proposal is a direct threat to the infrastructure that millions of Americans rely on every day,” said John Chrastka, founder and executive director of EveryLibrary. “Libraries are not optional. They are essential public resources that support literacy, workforce development, and community connection in every state.”
The IMLS Grants to States program serves as the backbone of federal library funding, providing formula-based support to every state and territory. These funds sustain key services such as early literacy programs, broadband access, workforce training, interlibrary-loan, and resource sharing. Eliminating this funding would create immediate and far-reaching consequences for public and school libraries nationwide.
The proposal also raises broader concerns about the future of federal knowledge institutions, including the Library of Congress and the National Archives and Records Administration. Together, these institutions safeguard the public record, uphold intellectual freedom, and ensure equitable access to information.
In 2025, 21 state attorneys general successfully challenged prior efforts to dismantle IMLS, with a federal court reaffirming that the agency’s programs are authorized by Congress and must be maintained. EveryLibrary warns that the FY2027 proposal attempts to achieve a similar outcome through the appropriations process.
EveryLibrary is urging Congress to reject any proposal that would cut funding for IMLS or weaken the nation’s library infrastructure. The organization is also calling on the public to take action and advocate for continued federal support.
“This is a moment for leadership,” says Chrastka. “Libraries are one of the most trusted and widely used public resources in the country, and eliminating federal support would undermine access for millions of Americans.”
Sign the petition and contact your members of Congress today at SaveIMLS.org. Supporters are encouraged to share the petition across social platforms and raise awareness about the critical role libraries play in communities nationwide.
EveryLibrary is the national political action organization dedicated to defending and advancing public, school, and academic libraries. We work with local communities, library supporters, and partners across the country to protect library funding, fight censorship, and support pro-library ballot measures and legislation.