ALA and AFSCME Prevail in Fight to Protect Libraries and Museums Nationwide

The American Library Association and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees have reached a settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that protects the Institute of Museum and Library Services and ensures the agency will continue carrying out its congressionally mandated work. IMLS is the only federal agency dedicated to providing funding for the nation’s libraries. Democracy Forward and Gair Gallo Eberhard LLP represent plaintiffs. The agreement resolves litigation challenging the Trump-Vance administration’s attempt to dismantle IMLS through executive action. Under the settlement, the agency will continue awarding grants, conducting research, and operating programs that support libraries and museums across the country. The agreement also confirms that previously terminated grants have been reinstated, agency staff reductions have been reversed, and the administration will not take further steps to implement the executive order targeting IMLS.