The library services you count on are at risk.

On Friday, March 14, President Trump signed an executive order that targets federal funding to libraries and museums through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). IMLS is the single largest source of critical federal funding for libraries. IMLS’ entire program of service costs 87 cents per person. (US population July 2024)

Libraries are busy, effective and efficient.

Federal funding impacts library services statewide.

Reliable online sources for research

The MBLC prioritized this service amidst federal funding uncertainty, however, beginning July 1, statewide research database offerings will be significantly reduced.

How this affects you:  Access to trusted online content is especially important for educators, college students, K-12 students, homeschoolers, and anyone who needs to do research.πŸ”—Several statewide databases have been eliminated for FY2026.

Getting items from other libraries

How this affects you: Right now, you have access to millions of items from 500 participating libraries to get books, magazines, materials in languages other than the English, and more that your own library network doesn’t have. Your access to items shared by other libraries will be maintained for the next year.

Text reads: 
Borrow Beyond your Library.  Get Books, DVDs, and more that aren't on your local library shelves.  Commonwealth Catalog"

Access to eBooks and Audiobooks

How this affects you: It may be more difficult to borrow titles through Libby. Wait times on Libby will likely increase, and the selection of available eBooks and audiobooks will likely decrease. 

Please note: Publishers often charge libraries five to six times the consumer cost for the same eBook with more restrictive licenses. These policies have severely limited libraries’ ability to purchase electronic content to meet demand. For library users with dyslexia, disabilities, and mobility challenges, eBooks and audiobooks are a necessity. The Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) is working with state legislators to ensure access. The following bills have been filed: 

  • HD.3595 An Act addressing challenges facing public libraries and digital resource collections by Representative Murray. 
  • SD.2330 An Act addressing challenges facing public libraries and digital resource collections by Senator Feeney. 

The summer reading program with the Boston Bruins is partially federally funded.

This year’s 2025 Summer Library Program β€œWhen You Read, You Score!” is made possible thanks to increased support from the Boston Bruins.

Local Grants for Libraries

Everyone can support libraries.

  • Empowered by Libraries – You can tell the MBLC how your library has helped you and your story will be shared with Massachusetts legislators. 
  • Share your stories with Senator Ed Markey – Senator Markey is pushing back against the latest executive orders from the Trump Administration and would like to hear from YOU about how you are being affected. 
  • SaveIMLS.org – EveryLibrary’s petition to State Governors and Congress.
  • Show Up For Our Librariesβ€― – The American Library Association’s campaign to harness the collective power of library advocates.
  • You can contact your state legislators: β€―FIND MY LEGISLATOR 
  • You can contact your federal legislators: FIND MY CONGRESS MEMBER

πŸ“° Latest news

May 22, 2025

State Library Head Warns of Cuts
Franklin Observer

April 10, 2025

The assault on libraries must end: Protect libraries so everyone has access to knowledge and opportunity
The Boston Globe by David Leonard, President of the Boston Public Library

April 9, 2025

Karen Traub: What to do when tax dollars fund millionaire golf games instead of libraries
Greenfield Recorder by MBLC Commissioner Karen Traub

March 26, 2025

Bipartisan Support Letter
PRESS RELEASE