Amid Federal Threats, We Must Protect Our Public Libraries
This Opinion piece from Dr. Jill Underly, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, was published by the Cap Times in recognition of National Library Week and School Library Month.
As we celebrate National Library Week and School Library Month, there is a bittersweet feeling in the air. Our libraries are the heart of our communities and our schools, enriching lives with knowledge, resources and support. They are lifelines for education, connection and opportunity.
Amid the celebrations, though, we face a growing concern: The future of federal funding for public libraries is uncertain, and with it, the future of many vital programs Wisconsinites rely on.
This week, we honor librarians, not just as custodians of books, but as community pillars, professionals, educators and advocates for accessible information. Their work goes far beyond shelving materials; they are stewards of knowledge who have a critical role in fostering education, promoting civic engagement and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.
Yet, even as we celebrate their work, there’s a looming threat. A recent executive order by President Trump endangers the critical resources our libraries depend on, as well as the dedicated librarians who serve our communities. The directive to reduce or eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) jeopardizes the vital programs and services that libraries provide to the public.
In Wisconsin alone, IMLS’ Library Services and Technology Act Grants to States Program, the largest source of federal funding support for public library services, delivered $3.23 million in 2024 — just 55 cents per resident.
Thanks to this funding, libraries statewide offer programs supporting workforce development, summer reading, literacy for all ages, and preserving local tribal history. It helps Wisconsinites access affordable high-speed internet through the Wisconsin Internet Discount Finder, assists those with visual and audio impairments and ensures continued access to homework help, career training and essential services.
It also funds Department of Public Instruction Library Services staff who consult on youth services, inclusive programs, literacy and library administration, and supports resources like BadgerLink, digital archives of state government documents, and the Interlibrary Loan Program. For rural and underserved communities, interlibrary loan provides 15 million library materials shared across the state annually.
Without federal funding, libraries would be forced to cut back on these life-changing programs and leave states without the critical support they need to help libraries serve their patrons.
Imagine the impact on children who rely on after-school reading programs, or adults seeking new job skills, or the elderly who need access to technology to connect with family and health care providers. In this digital age, where technology is key, the loss of federal support would only deepen the divide between those with access and those without.
We need to act now.
During National Library Week and School Library Month, it’s important to not only celebrate libraries and librarians, but also advocate for the funding they need to continue their work.
President Trump’s executive order is already taking effect. Many IMLS staff have been placed on leave or dismissed, and funding has been cut in other states. In response, the DPI, with the Wisconsin Department of Justice, filed a lawsuit last week alongside 18 other states.
If you’re unsure how federal funding impacts your local library, visit the DPI's interactive map on our “Tracking Federal Funding” webpage. This tool highlights how much Wisconsin libraries depend on federal support to serve their communities.
Now, more than ever, we must ensure libraries stay strong, accessible, and well-funded for future generations. Let’s honor our librarians not just with gratitude, but with action. Write to your elected officials and speak up in support of libraries. The future of our libraries — and the Wisconsinites who rely on them — depends on us.
The time to act is now.
Jill Underly is Wisconsin's state superintendent of schools.