The federal government has called for defunding the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the federal agency charged with distribution of congressionally authorized funds to state libraries, museums, archive programs and local libraries.
The elimination of federal government funding will negatively affect Chamberlin Free Public Library’s patrons. Many of our patrons rely on books obtained and delivered by the state Interlibrary loan system. Last year, we processed 486 requests for books by our patrons and 948 requests by other libraries in the state for books in our library. These book requests are delivered by the State Library’s van delivery service at no cost to our patrons. Should the federal funding disappear, so would this valuable service.
Additionally, should IMLS funding be removed, severe cuts or elimination of other services will occur. IMLS funds the staff and electronic platforms for our e-book service, audio books, Talking Book for the Blind and Physically Handicapped.
If you have used, plan to use any of these services, or simply value the services offered by Chamberlin Free Public, I encourage you to contact your congressional delegation to offer your support for maintaining IMLS funding. Remember, once cut, these services will be very difficult or impossible to reinstate.
Charles Brault
Director, Chamberlain Free Public Library