Dear Madison Library Patron,

In an Executive Order signed March 14, President Donald Trump has called for the defunding of the Institute of Museum and Library Science (IMLS); the federal agency charged with distributing congressionally approved funds to state libraries and to library, museum and archives programs.

We want to let you know how this may impact our library patrons here in Madison.

IMLS funds support the Inter-Library Loan (ILL) system, including van drivers, administrative staff, and the computer software that allows us to borrow books, audiobooks, movies, and magazines from other libraries across the state. In 2024 alone, our library borrowed 2,701 items and lent out 2,534 through ILL. This service is especially crucial for small libraries with limited budgets and for local book groups that rely on shared copies. Losing ILL would mean losing access to a vast network of resources our community depends on.

Additionally, IMLS funds help sustain the Libby app, which provides e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines, as well as Talking Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped program staff. In 2024, our library patrons checked out 2,841 e-books, 3,589 audiobooks, and 1,821 periodicals via the Libby app. If these funds are cut, these services could go away.

We are committed to providing our patrons with the resources they need, but without IMLS funding, we may no longer be able to do so.

If you value the Inter-Library Library Loan system and/or the Libby Downloadable program, we encourage you to reach out to our elected officials and voice your concerns.

Sincerely,

Sloane Jarell (Library Director) and the Madison Library Board of Trustees