Funding Cuts Threaten Our Libraries
A message from 14 Hancock County libraries, plus an update on the impact of IMLS cuts on the state of Maine
Fourteen Hancock County libraries joined together to voice our concerns over cuts to federal funding that benefits libraries and patrons all around the country. In the days since composing our letter, Maine State Library (MSL) announced that they issued layoff notices to 13 employees whose positions were funded through an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant, and due to uncertainty around access to approved federal funding, MSL is temporarily closed to reorganize and tentatively scheduled to reopen to the public on Monday, April 28.
Read the full text of the MSL press release here. Our letter follows below.
Cuts to IMLS Funding Are a Threat to Libraries Nationwide
Libraries nationwide are facing a serious threat due to a March 14 executive order that cuts funding to the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a federally mandated agency that supports libraries and museums in every U.S. state.
Hancock County, known for its strong community support for libraries, is home to 22 libraries that serve nearly 38,000 registered users from every background. Most recent statistics report patrons visited local libraries more than 350,000 times in 2023. While our county benefits from a robust range of library services, it still relies on essential resources provided by IMLS through the Maine State Library. These services include interlibrary loans, internet access, and digital content like eBooks, eAudiobooks, and research tools from state databases such as Ancestry.com. However, these services are now in jeopardy since the Trump administration halted IMLS operations.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Senator Collins, Senator King, Representative Golden and Attorney General Aaron Frey for their unwavering support of Maine’s libraries, especially in light of the challenges posed by the defunding of IMLS.
We also appreciate our patrons, Friends, and board members for their ongoing advocacy in support of library services for everyone. Along with your help, we can protect libraries as vital community hubs that offer access to essential resources, education, and support for residents across Maine.
We urge all Mainers to contact their congressional representatives and stand up for libraries. Eliminating and defunding IMLS would disproportionately harm small and rural communities, deepening inequities and removing crucial services that many depend on daily. Living in one of the most rural states, Maine residents are especially vulnerable to statewide service cuts.
Thank you. It is our honor to serve you.
Signed,