Judge Issues Injunction in Favor of State Attorneys General IMLS Lawsuit

Kelly, a former librarian and veteran blogger at STACKED, is the editor/author of two books focusing on mental health and feminism. Her upcoming book, BODY TALK, is set to be published in Fall 2020. You can follow her on Instagram @heykellyensen.

In an update following a recent examination of the Institute for Museum and Library Services, significant developments have occurred. A lawsuit filed by 21 state attorneys general sought to halt further dismantling of the federal agency, citing unconstitutional actions based on an Executive Order. Judge John J. McConnell granted the injunction today, denying a stay requested by the current administration. The judge’s ruling suggests that the plaintiffs are likely to succeed in proving that the actions taken against the IMLS are unlawful.

The Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has faced upheaval over the past month and a half at the hands of the Department of Government Efficiency. The agency, dedicated to public libraries and museums, has been transformed into a propaganda tool aligning with the current administration’s America 250 plans. Staff members were terminated, and library funding across the country was withdrawn, resulting in a severe blow to the system.

Two lawsuits were promptly filed against these cuts, one by 21 state attorneys general and the other by the American Library Association and AFSCME. Temporary restraining orders have been granted to halt further dismantling of the IMLS, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges faced by libraries nationwide. The proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026 includes the total elimination of IMLS funding, raising concerns about the future of library services and the administration’s intentions.

The Acting Director of the IMLS, Keith Sonderling, demanded information from state libraries on how their programs align with the administration’s directives, signaling a shift towards propaganda. Despite some funding being restored to individual states, the uncertainty surrounding the agency’s future and the impact on library services remains a significant issue.

Libraries and their supporters are urged to take action to protect the IMLS, including contacting representatives and advocating for continued funding. The ongoing story of IMLS funding cuts and its repercussions on libraries nationwide will be closely monitored as more details emerge.