At the library, everyone is welcome. Libraries are the great equalizer, giving access to resources for all, including those who cannot afford them. They are an essential resource, going beyond books with access and resources such as:
- Early literacy education and resources for children and parents
- Computer literacy help and access
- Community enrichment through programming and events
- Online classes on topics such as business, language, personal development, hobbies, and more
- Job search resources
Recently, you may have heard about the executive order that led to the shutdown of the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS). We hope this post will shed some light on the issue and give you resources for how you can help support your local library and all libraries across the country.
What Is the IMLS?
The Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is a small federal agency of 70 employees that provides funding to museums and libraries nationwide. IMLS makes up about 0.0046% of the federal budget and distributes more than $200 million annually to libraries, museums, and zoos. IMLS helps drive innovation and contributes to research, sharing of national models and best practices, and encourages regional and national collaboration.
For many libraries (particularly rural libraries, especially in Wisconsin), IMLS helps level the playing field by making sure they have support even if not well supported by local tax base or local infrastructure.
How Libraries Are Funded in Wisconsin
Local dollars are the primary source of your library's funding supporting operational costs, staff, collections, building maintenance, etc. However, these funds alone would never allow your library to provide access to all the resources you currently enjoy. Libraries are part of a state-wide network that expands access to a much a larger array of collections and services, thanks to a layered approach to funding.
Local Funding
Local taxes support operational costs, staff salaries, and building maintenance.
State Funding
The state legislature provides funding every two years, covering statewide programs and resources. That funding goes to the state’s 15 library systems, which coordinate resources and many shared services for all of their public libraries.
Federal Funding (IMLS)
IMLS provides funds for grants to individual libraries, support staff at the state level, and other resources that support the network of public libraries in Wisconsin. In 2024, $3.2 million dollars were allocated to Wisconsin from IMLS. This federal funding is administered and distributed by the Department of Public Instruction, which is the state library agency. Some of the things this funding is used for:
- BadgerLink Access – Wisconsin’s online library with databases for research, literacy, and lifelong learning. This is a critical resource that serves Wisconsin schools of all levels as well as the general public. IMLS funding provides the platform for BadgerLink, which gives access to all the materials.
- Grants to libraries for one-time necessary purchases that are otherwise not in their budgets. These can include computer equipment, IT support, Internet services such as hot spots for patrons to borrow, technology for providing Wi-Fi to their communities, and more.
- Wisconsin State Interlibrary Loan System (WISCAT), which lets patrons borrow materials from other libraries across the state. As of 2022, Wisconsin ranked first in the nation in interlibrary loans received per 1,000 residents.
- Department of Public Instruction (DPI) Division for Libraries and Technology – Staff from DPI oversee library compliance and provide consulting for all libraries in the state on a wide variety of topics. DPI staff also administer the distribution of both state and federal aid.
What Can You Do?
Libraries are crucial for education, digital resources, job support, and community connection. Help ensure their future by supporting continued funding.
- Advocate for State and Federal Support: Contact your representatives to urge support for IMLS funding.
- Engage with Your Library: Visit your local library and take advantage of the resources available.
- Make a video: The Department of Public Instruction (DPI) is asking library patrons to make a 30-60 second video talking about why their library is important to them. You can upload your video here: https://tinyurl.com/wi-library-stories
- Vote: Stay informed on issues that impact libraries and vote accordingly.
- Learn more: Visit https://mywisconsinlibrary.org/ to get more information and follow links to take action.
Thank you for supporting the Library!