SCLA Advocacy Update: IMLS Grants to States Program Withdrawn

Posted onAuthorscla admin

Colleagues and Friends, 
 
Last night, we received word that the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Grants to States Program has been cancelled. This action withdraws 85% of the federally appropriated aid to the New York State Library and Division of Library Development (DLD). The consequences of this decision will be profound, including a significant impact on all of Suffolk’s libraries and by extension, our professions, patrons, communities.

As we learn more about the local implications, we will share updates. But right now, we must respond.

The SCLA Executive Board has issued an official statement on behalf of The Association. The statement is attached to this email and will be on our website shortly. We urge you to read it – and more importantly, to take action.

Contact Your Representatives Today
We strongly encourage you to reach out to the following individuals, especially if you are a constituent. Tell them what libraries mean to you, and why this funding must be restored. 

 
Call, write, and email

Andrew Garbarino

31 Oak Street Suite 20

Patchogue, NY  11772

Phone: (631) 541-4225

https://garbarino.house.gov/contact

Nicholas LaLota

515 Hauppauge Road Suite 3B

Hauppauge, NY  11788

Phone: (631) 289-1097

https://lalota.house.gov/contact

What Should You Say?

  • Share your name and contact information.
  • Say that you are a constituent and that you care deeply about libraries.
  • Be brief, direct, and authentic.
  • Add a personal story if you have one.
  • If calling, prepare your message ahead of time.


Why This Matters
Here’s what is now possibly at risk with the loss of this funding:

  • NOVEL NY Databases: Resources like Opposing Viewpoints, Academic OneFile, and Britannica – used by students, educators, and job seekers.
  • Library Construction Aid: Critical funding for libraries to make buildings ADA-compliant and meet the needs of growing communities could disappear.
  • Training and Consulting: Staff at the NYS Library provide expert support in areas like records management, and library staff can request training or consult with staff to understand their obligations.
  • Library Systems and Resource Councils: 23 Library Systems and 9 Resource Councils in the State rely on aid from the NYS and DLD to keep their doors open. These entities provide programs and support to the 756 public libraries in the state in areas like eBook and electronic resources purchases, delivery of materials that libraries borrowed from other libraries, and professional resources.


Our Message Is Simple
“Libraries are essential to me, my family, and my community – we vote, and we want this funding restored. Do what you must to reverse these cuts.”

We know that these are uncertain times, but these times require action. Raise your voice and tell everyone that our libraries are worth fighting for.

 
Thank you for your time and attention. 
On behalf of the Suffolk County Library Association Board,
Anthony Giansante
SCLA President