Court Victory for American Libraries, the Institute of Museum and Library Services
In late January, the Trump administration appealed the decision presented in rhode island vs trump. Judge John J. McConnell issued the directive in November, issuing a permanent injunction in the case Administration could not destroy IMLS any more And all grant funds should be restored. IMLS, which has lost more than half of its already reduced staff, will continue operations as before the March dissolution.
rhode island vs trump The suit was one of two filed in the wake of the administration’s elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the only federal agency dedicated to public libraries and museums.
A big update has come in the appeal. from today-For approximately one year from the date of first filing of the case-Trump administration has withdrawn its appeal. This means that the previous ruling by Judge McConnell will stand.
This is extremely celebratory and a step in the right direction towards protecting public libraries across the country and another step towards protecting IMLS.
This victory is worth celebrating, but it comes on the heels of the Trump administration’s proposed 2027 budget, which Cancel IMLS completely. The decision to withdraw the appeal is likely based on the assumption that returning the money to the agency would allow it to close rather than taking direct action.
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“Today’s action finally puts to rest President Trump’s executive order that has jeopardized the countless library services available to anyone visiting one of our nation’s 115,000 public, school, academic and other libraries. This is a victory for all who value access to information, education, and opportunity. Libraries can move forward with confidence that IMLS funding will be available to maintain the vital services that communities rely on, ” said Sam Helmick, president of the American Library Association. “However, we cannot forget that President Trump is still asking Congress to end funding for IMLS. This decision partly rests in the hands of constituents. Library supporters should call on Congress to protect the future of IMLS.”
rhode island vs trump The suit was the first filed after the dissolution of IMLS. Still second in the courts, American Library Association v. Sonderling. The plaintiffs in the case won a temporary restraining order last May, but the case is still pending. It will be interesting to keep an eye on this case in view of the appeal being withdrawn Rhode Island and a proposal to reduce the IMLS budget to zero for the next year.
you can find one Here is the complete timeline of attacks on IMLSAnd you can take action to protect the institution and the libraries it runs through thoughts here.