Call to Action: Stand Up for California Libraries

📣 Call to Action: Stand Up for California Libraries

On April 1, 2025, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) abruptly terminated all active federal library grants, including the Grants to States program, citing a new Executive Order from President Trump. Over 21% of California’s 2024–25 grant funding remains unpaid, leaving critical programs unfunded and thousands of residents without support. Read the full press release from the California State Library here.

The sudden termination of IMLS funding threatens vital library programs across California — from early literacy and summer reading to broadband access, workforce development, and services for veterans, rural residents, and visually impaired individuals.

Library workers, Friends, trustees, volunteers — and most importantly, community members — must act now.

👉 Call your Congressional representatives, especially Republican members of California’s delegation, and tell them: Reinstitute and reauthorize IMLS and restore critical federal library funding.

Community members in these districts are strongly encouraged to contact your congressional representatives:

• Doug LaMalfa, 1st District, Phone (530) 343-1000
• Keven Kiley, 3rd District, Phone (916) 724-2575
• Tom McClintock, 5th District, Phone (916) 786-5560
• Vince Fong, 20th District, Phone: (559) 701-2530
• David Valadao, 22nd District, Phone (661) 864-7736
• Jay Obernolte, 23rd District, Phone (760) 247-1815
• Young Kim, 40th District, Phone (714) 984-2440
• Ken Calvert, 41st District, Phone (951) 277-0042
• Darrell Issa, 48th District, Phone: (760) 304-7575

These funds are not optional. They’re a promise to our communities, and it’s time to hold our leaders accountable.

Libraries are vital. These cuts are unacceptable. Visit SaveIMLS.org to make your voice heard. Find your representative here.