MMLC Statement and Call to Action
on Executive Order Eliminating IMLS
There have been many different organizations sending out statements on the executive order on IMLA, including those from ALA and MLA. Linked below are several different statements we hope will help you when asked about this issue including joint statements from the Library Cooperatives of Michigan (LCM) and Michigan Library Association (as well as other partners), the ALA Statement and the ALA FAQ. It is important that we all talk about this issue and not wait for ALA or MLA to speak for us.
Without intercession, we believe IMLS will be eliminated beginning in October 2025. The Library Cooperatives of Michigan (LCM) and MLA agree that our advocacy efforts need to focus on MeL and MeLCat. IMLS funding paid for a large portion of these vital resources.
This year is the 20th Anniversary of MeL and MeLCat. Stories from patrons on how MeL and MeLCat has impacted their life are being collected by the Library of Michigan. Library of Michigan plans to utilize these personal stories to promote and advocate for MeL and MeLCat. A sample stories template is linked below.
We are asking everyone to reach out to your Legislators now. Please review the Talking Points document (linked below) to help guide your discussion.
Join ALA in urging your House Representative to follow the Senate’s example and do everything in their power to support library funding! Click here to send a message to your Representative.
Resource guide
Joint Statement on IMLS from Michigan Libraries, Museums and Archives
Statement from Library of Michigan
ALA Response to White House Announcement on IMLS
ALA FAQ on Order Targeting IMLS
ALA Statement on IMLS Staff Cuts
Statement from MiALA (Michigan Academic Libraries)