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The National Museum and Library Services Board has issued a letter to Acting Director Sonderling, with every member signing in a show of unified support for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The letter welcomes Sonderling to his new role while reaffirming the Board’s commitment to protecting the agency’s core legally required functions. It comes in response to President Trump’s Executive Order #14238, which directs federal agencies to reduce non-legally required operations to the greatest extent possible. The Board emphasized that key programs mandated by the Museum and Library Services Act of 2018, including grants for libraries and museums, cannot be lawfully diminished or eliminated under the order.
The letter also highlights the Board’s role in providing oversight and guidance to ensure IMLS continues fulfilling its congressional requirements. Members underscored the importance of maintaining funding for essential programs that support museums, libraries, and information services nationwide. With concerns over potential cuts, the Board’s unified statement serves as a strong call to preserve the agency’s mission of advancing access to knowledge and cultural resources for all communities.