President Trump has appointed Keith E. Sonderling as the new acting director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This change comes at a time when the IMLS, an independent federal agency, faces potential elimination due to an executive order issued by the President last week.
The IMLS plays a crucial role in supporting museums and libraries across the United States by providing grant funding. Last year, the agency awarded approximately $266 million to various projects and initiatives. This funding is vital for programs such as workforce training, pilot projects, and essential library services, especially in rural areas where access to computers and the internet can be limited.
Sonderling was sworn in on Thursday morning, entering the IMLS building with a security team and a small group of staff members. In a statement, he expressed his commitment to aligning the agency’s efforts with the current administration, aiming to enhance efficiency and drive innovation.
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 3403, which represents IMLS workers, has raised concerns about the future of the agency. They noted that while Sonderling seems dedicated to following federal law, there is uncertainty about whether current funding for grantees will continue or if new grants will be made available.
Jeff Jankowski, president of Hoopla Digital, a service that helps library users access digital content, warned that without adequate funding, many libraries might have to cut back on digital services or even eliminate access entirely.
In response to the executive order, the American Alliance of Museums issued a statement highlighting that the IMLS accounts for a mere 0.0046% of the federal budget. They emphasized the significant economic impact of museums, which generate around $50 billion annually.
As the IMLS navigates these changes, the future of its funding and support for libraries and museums remains uncertain. Many are watching closely to see how these developments will unfold in the coming weeks.