The Institute for Museum and Library Services & Portsmouth Public Library

On Friday, March 14, the White House issued an executive order that calls for the elimination of the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) "to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law." 

We are starting to receive questions about what this means for Portsmouth Public Library - so please read on for more information!

What is the IMLS?

The IMLS is the nation’s only federal agency for libraries. It distributes congressionally approved funds to state libraries and to library, museum, and archives programs. The IMLS represents just .003% of the federal budget, which translates into programs and services used in more than 1.2 billion in-person patron visits every year across the country, and many more virtual visits.

How does the IMLS fund PPL services?

Here in New Hampshire, IMLS funding is used for our Interlibrary Library Loan (ILL) system, including the software, administrative staff, and van drivers. In 2024, Portsmouth Public Library borrowed over 2,700 materials from other libraries for our patrons. 

IMLS funding is also used for the Libby app, which is shared across the state, and includes ebooks and digital audiobooks and magazines. In 2024, Portsmouth Public Library users had over 17,000 borrows in Libby! 

What else does the IMLS fund?

Libraries in NH and nationwide also receive IMLS grants for services like:

• Early literacy development and grade-level reading programs
• Summer reading programs for kids 
• High-speed internet access
• Employment assistance for job seekers 
• Braille and talking books for people with visual impairments
• Homework and research resources for students and faculty
• Veterans’ telehealth spaces equipped with technology and staff support
• STEM programs, simulation equipment and training for workforce development
• Small business support for budding entrepreneurs

What happens next? 

We don’t know yet exactly when and how changes will take effect, and we are looking to the state library here in NH as we move forward. We will inform our community if there are any changes to library services. 

How can you help?

If you object to the elimination of these funds and the effect on library services, we encourage you to contact your Congressional Representatives expressing why these funds are critical, and how this change will impact Portsmouth and New Hampshire residents.

For more information, please read the American Library Association’s response to this executive order.