While a lot of uncertainty remains, Michiganders are clear in their support for IMLS and IMLS-funded programs. In the June poll, 78% of respondents said that IMLS funding from the federal government should remain as part of the federal budget.

If federal funding for libraries is no longer part of the federal budget, 82% of respondents said it is important for the State of Michigan to replace funding lost for libraries. These figures show strong support for the continuation of programs like the Michigan eLibrary and statewide catalog, MeL and MeLCat, and send a message to our federal and statewide legislators that these programs remain a priority for Michiganders.

Where do things stand for IMLS? While Congress continues to deliberate on FY2026 spending bills, the American Library Association (ALA) is reminding advocates to contact their representatives, especially those who serve on Congressional Appropriation Committees, to urge them to continue funding IMLS. This week, we learned Congress has decided to push back its discussions on library funding until the first week of September, which gives us more time to advocate. As ALA highlighted in their communications this week, Congress members and their staff have a higher chance of seeing your communications and engaging with the issue while they are in their home districts over the summer.

While lawsuits challenging the March Executive Order attempting to shutter IMLS make their way through the courts, the federal administration may consider other avenues for eliminating the agency. Just last week, Congress rolled back $9 billion in previously allocated funds for public media and foreign aid through a rescission package. You can find a detailed update on the possibility of recissions, reconciliation through spending bills, and the reauthorization of IMLS in this article.

While ALA and groups like EveryLibrary continue to encourage outreach to federal legislators, contacting your Michigan Senators and House Representatives to communicate the value of IMLS-funded programs is also important.

The Library of Michigan has indicated they’re able to stretch the federal FY2025 dollars through FY2026, which would allow for the continuation of MeL and MeLCat until October 1, 2026 (as long as the funding is not rescinded). If the federal administration succeeds with its intent to shutter IMLS, Michigan needs to be prepared to fund affected statewide programs beginning October 1, 2026.

Library advocates must continue to educate communities and legislators on the value of programs like MeL and MeLCat, and the potential need for a State of Michigan appropriation to ensure the programs continue!

Use this bookmark (pdf) to share information about how federal funding cuts could impact the Michigan eLibrary.

To learn more, visit milibrares.org/fund-libraries and watch this page for the latest updates on the status of IMLS and federal funding and its impact on MeL and other vital library services here in Michigan.