21 April 2025
On Friday night, March 14, the Trump administration issued an Executive Order to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)—the only federal agency dedicated to funding libraries, archives, and museums across the country.
As reported earlier, IMLS funding currently reaches more than half of the 574 Federally Recognized Tribes. The majority of that reach extends to Native American communities within the lower 48 states. This reach is particularly notable within the Basic (NAB) Grants program, which allows for NA/AN communities to apply for up to $10,000 in non-competitive grant funds for core operational activities and thus make up the majority of IMLS awards.
Since its inception in 1996, IMLS has provided essential support to communities in all 50 states and U.S. territories. From early literacy and summer reading programs to high-speed internet access and workforce development, IMLS grants enrich lives in countless ways. These grants help fund many crucial projects, for example:
- Language and Cultural Preservation
The P’oe Tsawa Community Library of Ohkay Owingeh (New Mexico) leverages IMLS grant funds to enrich its programs and services by incorporating the Tewa language, culture, and history of the Tribe. This includes offering classes on traditional regalia and crafts, along with integrating Tewa language instruction and educational materials throughout the library’s services. Additionally, the library has launched an internship program for local high school and college students, providing them with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the library’s daily operations and programs. - Supporting Community Educational and Professional Aspirations
Red Cliff Nation in Wisconsin utilized IMLS funds to host: a College & Career Fair, Business and Career Symposium, workshops on job-seeking and scholarships, in addition to cultural classes like traditional music sessions, language tables, and cultural teachings.
For Native communities, the Native American Library Services Basic Grants, Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants, and Native Hawaiian Library Services grants programs are a critical resource. These grant programs help Tribal Nations establish and sustain libraries that serve as knowledge and resource centers—supporting community wellness, access to culturally relevant materials, and opportunities for learning as well keeping our cultures alive.
The American Indian Library Association deeply values and respects the work that IMLS has accomplished over the years; it is catastrophic to have funding that supports the services provided by Tribal libraries to community members eliminated. We encourage everyone to write and show their support for IMLS, a precious and necessary resource for all of our Nations.
AILA Executive Board