From ALA 3/21/25: President Trump issued an executive order aimed to dismantle the only federal agency dedicated to funding library services, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). In short, this order would be deeply harmful for communities across the country. Millions of people rely every day on library services and programs supported by IMLS. Now we need YOU to show up for our libraries. 

IMLS draws less than 0.003% of the annual federal budget yet has enormous impact in communities nationwide. From technology classes for jobseekers to services for people with disabilities, from library delivery for older Americans to summer reading programs for families, IMLS funding makes a real, concrete difference in the lives of Americans every day.

The President’s executive order puts all of those services at risk—and so much more. Veterans, businesses, students, families, unemployed and underemployed people, disabled people, and seniors use services supported by IMLS. As seedbeds of education and innovation, our nation’s 125,000 public, school, academic, and special libraries deserve more, not less support.  

We need every library supporter to show up and make their voices heard. 

3/5/3025 From Deb Froggatt: 

The gathering in Norwood this past Sunday and Monday  with many of you was energizing and heartwarming. The collective effort and care given on behalf of the Commonwealth's children is a testament the impact that our profession has on academic success.

I write to ask you to reach out to your state representatives and senators to ask them to add their names as sponsors to the bills listed below.  Here is the Find Your Legislator tool. 

* School Library Standards  This bill will help establish the AASL standards and require that DESE performs a school librarian survey so we have an accurate look at equitable access to effective school library programs. The bill is SD.1769.  Here is the School Library Standards  One Pager. 

* Freedom to Read  These bills would further protect libraries and librarians from censorship and abuse.  There are several bills, but we are asking for legislators to sponsor SD.141 and HD.625.  You can share this Freedom to Read handout with your legislators.

* eBook Bill - These bills would work towards increasing access to digital resources, while also creating a fairer pricing model for libraries.  The bills include SD.2329 and HD.1221. You can share this eBook handout with your legislators.  

Senator Jacob Oliveira spoke Monday morning. The energy in the room regarding his support of our efforts was powerful. We are fortunate to have him as a school library advocate. Please reach out and thank him: Jacob.Oliveira@masenate.gov

Your correspondence of thanks and seeking support truly make a difference.