Madison Reporter

President Trump's recent executive order threatens the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the sole federal agency dedicated to supporting American museums and libraries. This decision has prompted a response from local institutions, including Madison Public Library and Madison Children’s Museum, urging public advocacy to preserve this essential agency.

The IMLS provides critical funding across all 50 states, enabling libraries to offer programs and services that cater to over 1.2 billion in-person visits annually. The funds also support virtual visits at various types of libraries nationwide. "National Leadership Grants through IMLS have allowed us to partner with libraries and museums around the country," stated Tana Elias, Director of Madison Public Library. She emphasized the impact on local programs like the Bubbler arts-based learning program.

Madison Children’s Museum has also benefited from IMLS grants, launching initiatives such as Caretakers of Wonder, which supports children and families facing climate change challenges. Tom Linfield, president & CEO of Madison Children’s Museum, highlighted the importance of federal support: “Federal support has been extraordinarily important to our growth.”

Both institutions have received national recognition for their contributions; Madison Children’s Museum won the National Medal for Museum Service in 2011, while Madison Public Library received the National Medal for Library Service in 2016.

IMLS's influence extends beyond these two entities in Wisconsin, impacting a range of cultural institutions statewide. Over 15 years, IMLS has awarded nearly $70 million in grants to Wisconsin's museums and libraries. This funding generates significant economic benefits—$350 million in tax revenue over that period.

Despite making up only a small fraction (0.0046%) of the federal budget, museums contribute significantly to the economy with $50 billion in benefits and support over 726,000 jobs nationwide. The call for continued federal backing is supported by bipartisan approval and public opinion favoring maintained or increased funding levels.