On behalf of the Chattanooga Public Library, the CPL Board of Directors and the CPL Foundation, we wish to share with you a significant development affecting both your hometown library and libraries nationwide.
On Friday, March 14, the White House issued an executive order calling for the elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. IMLS is an independent federal agency that distributes hundreds of millions of dollars in congressionally approved funds to support 35,000 museums and 123,000 libraries across the country. In 2024, the total amount awarded by IMLS to museums, libraries, and archives was $266.7 million, or just 0.003 percent of the federal budget. Despite its small impact on the federal budget, this funding makes a huge impact on communities.
The funding CPL receives from the city of Chattanooga’s yearly budget covers the library’s operational expenses, such as staffing, building maintenance and general supplies. However, CPL relies on IMLS funding for everything else. Receiving an average of $435,000 a year plus additional disbursements, CPL uses this funding for the purchase of books, including e-books, e-audiobooks and streaming content through the Libby and Hoopla apps. CPL also uses this crucial funding for the purchase of computers, makerspace equipment and software; access to digital collections and interlibrary loans; historic and archival preservation; staff training; and the development of educational programs.
CPL remains neutral on political matters, as their mission is rooted in a strong commitment to serving everyone in their community. They are dedicated to empowering and enriching the lives of others. With programs and resources that help develop literacy skills at birth, support K-12 student outcomes, provide resources for workforce development and entrepreneurs and create opportunities for seniors to connect with others, CPL and other libraries serve their communities throughout every stage of life.
While the elimination of IMLS only creates a minimal savings of 0.003 percent to the federal budget, the negative effects on communities across the country will be felt for decades. That is why we are asking the public to stand up for libraries. We need all library supporters to write and call their members of Congress now and urge them to protect the valuable and necessary funding provided through IMLS.
Libraries are not luxuries; they are a critical component in the free exchange of information, which lies at the heart of our democracy. Let us stand together to ensure that these vital, nonpartisan institutions continue to serve future generations.
Dionne R. Jenkins
Board Chair, 2023-2025
The Chattanooga Public Library Board of Directors
Alex Hooper
Board Chair, 2023-2025
The Chattanooga Public Library Foundation