AFSCME and ALA sue Trump administration over library service cuts

Legal Battle Over Museum and Library Funding Intensifies

In a significant legal confrontation, AFSCME and The American Library Association (ALA) have filed a lawsuit to contest the Trump administration's decision to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This agency, known for its nonpartisan stance, has been crucial in supporting museums and libraries across the United States.

The lawsuit, spearheaded by Democracy Forward and Gair Gallo Eberhard LLP on behalf of AFSCME and ALA, seeks intervention from the U.S. District Court in Washington. The aim is to halt the deconstruction of IMLS as set out by a Trump executive order.

This legal action coincides with the observance of National Library Week. AFSCME, a union representing over 45,000 cultural workers, and ALA, the largest library association globally, are at the forefront of this fight.

IMLS has been instrumental in providing key assistance to libraries and museums nationwide. However, due to the administration's actions, the agency now finds itself functionally inactive, with its entire staff placed on leave.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders emphasized the significance of these institutions, stating, “Libraries and museums contain our collective history and knowledge, while also providing safe spaces for learning, cultural expression and access to critical public resources. They represent the heart of our communities, and the cultural workers who keep these institutions running enrich thousands of lives every day.”

He further commented on the challenges faced by library workers, noting, “Library workers do everything from helping people apply for jobs to administering life-saving care, all while facing increasing violence on the job. Their work deserves support, not cuts. We're suing to stop the wrongful closure of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and protect this critical resource for our communities.”

ALA President Cindy Hohl echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of libraries in democracy: “Libraries play an important role in our democracy, from preserving history to providing access to government information, advancing literacy and civic engagement, and offering access to a variety of perspectives.”

She added, “These values are worth defending. We will not allow extremists to threaten our democracy by eliminating programs at IMLS and harming the children and communities who rely on libraries and the services and opportunities they provide.”

The IMLS, established in 1996 by Congress, has traditionally enjoyed bipartisan support. The lawsuit argues that the termination of IMLS programs is unlawful, as it disregards Congressional funding and directives.

Following the executive order announcement, ALA promptly dispatched a letter to the new IMLS acting director, cautioning against the elimination of any programs protected by law.