Federal Library Funding Update: Current Status and Next Steps
In April, the White House FY27 budget proposal once again recommended eliminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), including only $6 million to shut down the agency. While concerning, this reflects the early stage of the federal budget process and does not determine final funding levels. Congress has repeatedly rejected similar proposals, and in FY26, maintained and modestly increased federal library funding.
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Written by Amber Sheerin
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Note From Amber
When intellectual freedom makes headlines, it's usually because a library is reacting to a challenge. But the work of protecting the freedom to read doesn't begin when a book is challenged or a policy is questioned. It starts with preparation, strong relationships, and a shared commitment to ensuring every Michigander has the freedom to access information and explore new ideas and perspectives.
That belief was at the heart of the Michigan Intellectual Freedom Summit, where library leaders, trustees, educators, legal experts, and advocates came together in June for two days of conversation, collaboration, and planning. This wasn't designed to be a traditional conference where people listened to presentations and went home. It was a working summit. We asked participants to think deeply about today's challenges, imagine what might be coming next, and help MLA shape a stronger statewide approach to protecting intellectual freedom.
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State Budget Negotiations Are Underway — Continue Speaking Up for Libraries!
After a busy month for Michigan’s legislature, momentum is building to finalize a budget for the state’s next fiscal year. With budget proposals now advanced by the House, Senate, and the Governor’s office, the next phase of negotiations is officially underway, and library advocates continue to play an important role in shaping the conversation around library funding.
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IMLS Update: Timeline of Key Events and Status
Since March of this year, libraries across the country have wrestled with federal funding uncertainty and the prospect of losing widely used programs and services funded by those dollars. An Executive Order seeking to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) - the only dedicated source of federal funding for public libraries - was followed by the firing and replacement of key staff, federal lawsuits, court injunctions, and calls to action. With so many updates to this story over the last few months, we thought it would be helpful to summarize the timeline so far and the latest updates on securing IMLS funding.
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Thank you to Shaunna Martz for Serving on MLA's Board!
A sincere thank you to Shaunna Martz of Kent District Library for her dedicated service on the MLA Board of Directors. Shaunna joined the Board in 2023 and has contributed her time, perspective, and steady commitment to advancing libraries across Michigan. At the June 2026 Board of Directors meeting, she was recognized with a plaque in appreciation of her service and the meaningful impact she has made during her tenure.
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