Library funding is under threat. Find out how you can show up for libraries: ala.org/showup Library Supporters Continue Call for Congressional Action represented by Democracy Forward and Gair Gallo Eberhard LLP IMLS is the only federal agency dedicated to the nation’s libraries and museums President Trump issued Executive Order 14238 which directed the elimination of the agency the Trump Administration put nearly all agency staff on administrative leave began mass termination of the agency’s grants and halted crucial data collection and research These actions left IMLS unable to fulfill its duties required by federal law and threw libraries across the country into a state of chaos “The immediate halt to the gutting of IMLS is a win for America's libraries and the millions of Americans who rely on them ALA is encouraged that the court recognizes the immediacy of the need for IMLS and library services at risk The temporary restraining order will stop the dismantling of IMLS while the court considers the merits in this case." The temporary restraining order was issued days before the mass layoff of nearly all IMLS employees was set to take effect on May 4 “Even with a temporary restraining order in place Congress also must act to ensure our nation's libraries can continue to serve their communities including by funding IMLS for next year.” Parallel to its efforts to preserve IMLS through litigation, ALA mounted a campaign to secure funding for the agency in Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 ALA is currently asking advocates to request their Congressmembers to demonstrate their commitment to library funding by signing congressional “Dear Appropriator” letters in support of IMLS funding next year The window for Congressmembers to sign on to the FY 2026 library funding letters is expected to close in mid-May “There is one final wall of defense against destruction of federal funding for libraries, constituents who tell elected leaders to continue providing libraries the federal resources that bring opportunity to millions of Americans Right now is prime time for every American to show up for our libraries by urging their Senators and Representatives to sign ‘Dear Appropriator’ letters in support of federal library funding," Hohl said Democracy Forward is a national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement. For more information, please visit www.democracyforward.org AFSCME's 1.4 million members provide the vital services that make America happen With members in communities across the nation serving in hundreds of different occupations — from nurses to corrections officers child care providers to sanitation workers — AFSCME advocates for fairness in the workplace excellence in public services and freedom and opportunity for all working families District Court for the District of Columbia granted a temporary restraining order to block the Trump Administration’s dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) AFSCME Challenge Trump Administration Gutting of Institute of Museum and Library Services The American Library Association (ALA) today released the highly anticipated Top 10 Most Challenged Books List An executive order issued by the Trump administration on Friday night calls for the elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services the nation’s only federal agency for America’s libraries The American Library Association launched a new supporter program on February 10 inviting the public to join the fight to protect libraries and library professionals at a pivotal moment in our country’s history The American Library Association responds to the Department of Education's dismissal of complaints about censorship and discrimination: the "effort to terminate protections.. advances the demonstrably false claim that book bans are not real." Today the American Library Association (ALA) launched Show Up for Our Libraries a campaign to harness the collective power of library advocates to influence elected leaders and policymakers The American Library Association extends our deepest sympathies to those who have been affected by and to those who have lost everything during the Los Angeles area fires The Public Library Association (PLA) has selected more than 139 public libraries across 42 states to host digital literacy workshops powered by a generous $2.7 million contribution from AT&T Lewis has made the largest individual bequest to the American Library Association in the association’s history © 1996–2025 American Library Association Home » News » Lawmakers move to mandate Ten Commandments displays (AP) — Alabama lawmakers have approved a slew of bills that would expand the use of Christian texts in public schools and limit protections for LGBTQ students in lockstep with a national conservative agenda that has divided statehouses across the country and allow chaplains to volunteer as school counselors Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter described the bills as “common sense,” while members of the Democratic caucus condemned the legislation as “a waste of taxpayer money” that “won’t bring down the cost of eggs.” The legislation is part of a widespread effort in conservative states to regulate how schools handle social issues a mission that has been championed by President Donald Trump Alabama joins at least 20 states that have considered legislation in 2025 that would mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools or state buildings according to an Associated Press analysis using the bill-tracking software Plural The sponsor of Alabama’s Ten Commandments bill said he did not want to promote one particular religion which appear in the Old Testament of the Bible as “one of the principal foundational documents that guided the ideas that created this great country.” The legislation said that the display should be supplemented by materials that emphasize its historical context In 2024, Louisiana became the first state to require that the Ten Commandments be displayed in every classroom in public schools and colleges The law was blocked by a federal judge last year who ruled the law had an “overtly religious” purpose The push for the Ten Commandments in public places is far from new in Alabama the bills have drawn vocal protest from religious leaders around the state who believe the slate of religious legislation will violate the First Amendment and create a hostile environment for religious minorities in Alabama public schools a rabbi who has worked at a synagogue in Mobile for 35 years testified at a March committee hearing that he is concerned that the Ten Commandments bill “unfairly sidelines Alabamians who may have diverse views of religious traditions.” many legislators came forward in support of the bill we see so much of our Western civilization crumbling because we have forsaken the roots and foundations upon which we were built,” Republican Rep representatives also swiftly passed two separate bills that would ban drag performances at public schools and libraries without parental consent and bar teachers from displaying pride flags or facilitating formal discussion on LGBTQ issues Alabama’s only openly gay legislator “When we ban their identities from the classroom we are telling them that the best they can hope for is silence,” Rafferty said because I know what that silence feels like.” Kentucky and North Carolina are among the states with versions of Alabama’s existing “Don’t say gay” law which already prohibits formal class discussion about gender and sexuality that is not “age appropriate” for students below the fifth grade The proposed law would extend that ban to all grade levels A similar Florida law was rolled back in a legal settlement last year between civil rights groups and the state education department the Alabama Senate also advanced legislation that would put a politically appointed board in control of the Alabama Department of Archives and History The change was first proposed last year after some lawmakers became upset about the department’s hosting a 2023 lecture on LGBTQ history but said the change was needed to ensure there is “accountability of the board back to elected officials.” At a recent rally outside of the statehouse who was a Baptist pastor for 45 years across Mississippi said the recent slate of religious bills in Alabama are part of a broader push to promote Christian nationalism across the country and it’s a fear that America is changing and we are losing power and control,” Poole said Associated Press writer Kim Chandler contributed reporting from Montgomery Riddle is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on under-covered issues The Free Speech Center newsletter offers a digest of First Amendment and news-media news every other week. Subscribe for free here: https://bit.ly/3kG9uiJ Explore The First Amendment Encyclopedia Nearly 1,700 articles on First Amendments topics News News News analysis, Perspective Book Reviews, Perspective Explore The First Amendment Encyclopedia More than 1,700 articles on First Amendment topics nonprofit public policy center dedicated to building understanding of the five freedoms of the First Amendment through education Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news {({tcb_post_published_date date-format='F j Y' link='0' rel='0' show-time='0' target='1' time-format='' time-format-select='g:i a' type='published' inline='1'})} {({tcb_post_categories link='1' rel='0' target='0' inline='1' css='tve-u-188958a1fe8' static-link='{"className":"","href":"https://firstamendment.mtsu.edu/category/news/","title":"News","data-css":"tve-u-188958a1fe8","class":""}' link-css-attr="tve-u-188958a1fe8"})} {({tcb_post_categories link='1' rel='0' target='0' inline='1' css='tve-u-1894875fcca' static-link='{"className":"","href":"https://firstamendment.mtsu.edu/category/news/","title":"News","data-css":"tve-u-1894875fcca","class":""}' link-css-attr="tve-u-1894875fcca"})} {({tcb_post_categories link='1' rel='0' target='0' inline='1' static-link='{"className":"","href":"https://firstamendment.mtsu.edu/category/perspective/","title":"Perspective","data-css":"tve-u-188958a2021","class":""}' css='tve-u-188958a2021' link-css-attr="tve-u-188958a2021"})} {({tcb_post_categories link='1' rel='0' target='0' inline='1' css='tve-u-189487653c1' link-css-attr="tve-u-189487653c1"})} Read this week's magazine The American Library Association and American Federation of State and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) on Thursday were granted a “narrow” temporary restraining order (TRO) against further action by Institute of Museum and Library Services acting director Keith Sonderling and agency defendants to dismantle the Institute for Museum and Library Services Leon of the district court of the District of Columbia agreed to “grant in part” the TRO to “prevent additional harm” to IMLS The judge stopped short of providing all relief sought by the plaintiffs in ALA v and he ordered the plaintiffs and defendants to submit a joint status report by May 6 so that the case might proceed “The immediate halt to the gutting of IMLS is a win for America's libraries and the millions of Americans who rely on them,” said ALA president Cindy Hohl “ALA is encouraged that the court recognizes the immediacy of the need for IMLS and library services at risk The temporary restraining order will stop the dismantling of IMLS while the court considers the merits in this case." Still “even with a temporary restraining order in place Congress also must act to ensure our nation's libraries can continue to serve their communities including by funding IMLS for next year.” AFSCME president Lee Saunders echoed Hohl’s sentiments “We celebrate today's decision as a victory for library and museum workers and the communities who depend on them,” Saunders said in a statement “They do everything from helping workers connect to job opportunities to instilling a love of learning and inspiring creativity in others This ruling will halt the layoffs of the critical workers who support them We look forward to moving our case forward and reversing this unlawful shut down.” The request for a TRO was a last-minute effort to forestall a May 4 reduction in force at IMLS with only 12 of approximately 75 employees remaining in the office and the rest on administrative leave since April 4 who spoke with PW on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution around three IMLS employees on administratively determined (AD) status are known to have been fired altogether on April 18; AD employees are employed at will and have less stability than typical federal employees Though regular IMLS employees were given 30 days of paid leave ahead of the RIF the AD employees received two weeks’ notice and then were let go the ALA and AFSCME have been seeking a preliminary injunction (PI) against the further demolition of IMLS During oral argument in an April 30 motion hearing plaintiffs moved to convert the PI motion” into a TRO that “The Court did so over defense counsel’s objection that had no apparent legal basis to support it!” the judge explained how IMLS ordinarily should operate according to the 1996 Museum and Library Services Act (MLSA) which “sets out multiple requirements for IMLS including certain grants that must be issued and certain qualifications which the Director must possess.” He traced how Sonderling and the defendants have been “shutting down the agency” in response to a March 14 executive order Judge Leon sounded sympathetic to the argument that “the wholesale terminations of grants and services and the mass layoffs appear to violate the clear statutory mandates outlined in the MLSA.” He expressed concern that “defendants’ conduct contravenes Congress’s appropriation of almost $300 million to IMLS,” and said plaintiffs were “likely to succeed” in arguing that defendants are violating the Administrative Procedure Act the damaged agency is far from being restored: the narrow TRO serves only “to preserve the status quo as of the date of this Order,” the judge wrote coming three days ahead of the planned reduction in force is of vital importance to IMLS and those who benefit from its programs Leon ordered that the agency defendants “shall not take any further actions to dissolve IMLS or its operations,” cannot fire any more staffers or put them on leave or otherwise terminate IMLS grants or contracts or fail to fund” them In his listing of “agency defendants,” judge Leon named Sonderling but for unknown reasons omitted the name of codefendant Donald Trump The judge also shared his reasoning on why the plaintiffs “met their burden to obtain a TRO.” To qualify for a temporary restraining order the party making the motion must have “a substantial likelihood of success on the merits,” evidence that irreparable harm will take place without the order and that the order “would not substantially injure” anyone else and a result that “furthers the public interest.” He found reason in all these points noting that the harm being done is “not merely economic” and that “preserving crucial access to library services outweighs defendants’ claimed interest.” This article has been updated with further information How to watch Arizona high school baseball: ALA-Queen Creek vs May 5Data SkriveAmerican Leadership Academy - Queen Creek is hosting Saguaro High School at 3:50 p.m How to watch Saguaro vs. ALA-Queen Creek baseballSaguaro and ALA-Queen Creek will match up on Monday, May 5, at 3:50 p.m. AZT. Don't miss out on any of the action with NFHS Network The NFHS Network gives you access to live high school sports around the country Follow your favorite team and never miss a game Want to track your alma mater, local team or family member's school throughout the playoffs? NFHS Network has high school baseball streaming live plus on-demand replays and highlights of all the action from thousands of schools across America Watch ALA-Queen Creek vs. Saguaro on NFHS Network! All NFHS Network events are available to watch online at NFHS Network and through the NFHS Network Mobile Apps for iOS and Android and TV Apps for ROKU You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience The Escambia County Commission announced Monday that Justin Jordan has been hired as the county’s new EMA director Jordan comes to Escambia County from Monroe County where he served as the deputy EMA director since 2019 Jordan has worked all phases of EMA duties There are two games on the college basketball schedule on Monday that feature a ranked team Today’s NHL slate features top teams in action Among those contests is the Tampa Bay Lightning taking on… The college basketball lineup on Monday should provide some fireworks Our computer model has suggested picks against the… Ranked teams are on the Monday college basketball schedule for two games including the Wake Forest Demon Deacons… There are seven games on today’s NBA schedule among them the Houston Rockets against the Oklahoma City Thunder.… Library Card Sign-Up Month started in 1987 with an announcement from the then United States Secretary of Education that all children should sign up for a library card The American Library Association partnered with the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science with an $85,000 grant from the Reader’s Digest Foundation and kicked off the inaugural month with the theme “The Best Gift You’ll Ever Give Your Child…A Library Card” This six-week online course is a basic primer for library acquisitions concepts common to all library material formats This 4-week online course provides an overview of acquiring and monitoring access to electronic resources The course offers a basic background in electronic including writing for Public Libraries magazine and PLA’s podcast ecent research in the cultural heritage conservation field has identified arsenic and other toxic heavy metals in pigments used in 19th century book bindings Delaware and Maryland Library Associations Joint Conference As the transgender population increases in size and visibility a resulting backlash has gripped America--and libraries are in the crossfire Learn how and why anti-trans misinformation is created and spread Learn how a county’s library and detention center built a collection to reflect the needs of incarcerated individuals This 4-week online course introduces participants to the principles policies and practices of preservation in libraries and archives This 4-week online course addresses the basic components of collection development and management (CDM) in libraries Complete definition of collection development and collection management Library consultant Toby Greenwalt demonstrates the capabilities of Super Searchers and Meet LEO and showcases potential applications in the library workspace the traditional use of digital collections simply as proxies for the physical has shifted to a paradigm of viewing collections as data suitable for computational use and novel research methods Expand your programming repertoire with out-of-the-box Connecting Information Literacy Efforts to Student Retention is a four-week asynchronous course discussing the difference a librarian makes as teachers of information literacy On March 14, President Trump issued an Executive Order intended to dismantle the only federal agency dedicated to funding library services the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) This set of frequently asked questions is intended to help library workers and library users understand this Executive Order Executive Order 14238 directs that seven agencies including the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) be eliminated to the maximum extent of the law and the agencies are ordered to reduce their services and personnel to the minimum amount required to perform the functions required by law The announcement also orders the federal budget agency the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to reject any budget requests from IMLS (and the other six named agencies) other than funds needed to shut down the agency The American Library Association is fighting for IMLS to be preserved and to continue supporting our nation’s 125,000 public Our policy and advocacy team in Washington DC is working with partners and library supporters across the country to advocate for IMLS On April 6, ALA and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees filed a federal lawsuit, and on April 10, a motion for a preliminary injunction (PDF) to stop the dismantling of IMLS ALA leaders are raising awareness in the media of the devastating impact that eliminating IMLS will have on communities ALA is also working with chapters to engage members of Congress in their state and to educate their elected officials on the impact of federal dollars to libraries on their constituents we are mobilizing our members and library lovers everywhere to contact their members of Congress We need every library supporter to show up and make their voices heard the Administration has taken several steps to dismantle IMLS the order directs OMB to reject funding requests from IMLS “except insofar as necessary to effectuate an expected termination” of the agency On May 2, President Trump’s FY26 budget request proposed to eliminate IMLS The President’s budget request has no legal effect but it proposes funding levels for Congress to consider when it writes annual government funding (“appropriations”) bills The Trump Administration proposed eliminating IMLS in all four years of his previous term and Congress rejected those proposals at the time ALA is calling on Congress to do so again and to protect funding for IMLS ALA urges library supporters to contact their Congressmembers in support of IMLS funding The Museum and Library Services Act (MLSA) is the law that established IMLS MLSA codifies the agency’s programs under the Library Services & Technology Act (LSTA) and the Museum Services Act as well as other agency activities like data collection and the National Museum and Library Services Board MLSA was first enacted in 1996 and has been reauthorized on a bipartisan basis several times since then – most recently in 2018 which was signed into law by President Trump Congress provides funding to IMLS annually through appropriations laws most recently in the law enacted on March 15 These laws direct federal agencies to spend the appropriated funding to carry out the specified programs and activities and sometimes provide further directions to the agencies some provisions of law apply across all or several federal agencies all executive agencies are required to comply with and implement the Freedom of Information Act all federally funded education programs (which is considered to include libraries and museums) must comply with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 Beginning in early April, IMLS began sending termination notices to numerous grantees ALA is responding to these politically-motivated attacks on library funding with public advocacy and litigation. In addition, to support affected grantees, ALA offers the following tips IMLS began sending termination notices to numerous grantees It is unclear how many IMLS grants remain open and if or when IMLS intends to terminate any remaining grants ALA recommends that all grantees consult with their legal counsel related to their specific grants IMLS funds a wide range of grants, research, and convenings to advance library programs and services. On the ALA Fund Libraries campaign page you can download one-pagers with your state’s LSTA funding history and library facts the IMLS website provides information about: You can find information on awarded grants on the IMLS website at https://www.imls.gov/grants/awarded-grants the Senate passed and the president signed a continuing resolution for fiscal year 2025 which provides funding for IMLS through September 2025 Although this continuing resolution provides funding for IMLS President Trump has instead directed the agency’s elimination all on the same day This Executive Order usurps the intent of Congress’s decision to provide funding for IMLS which President Trump agreed to in signing that law all but 12 of the agency's staff of approximately 75 employees have been put on paid administrative leave and received notice of an agency-wide reduction in force to take place May 4 UPDATE: On May 1, Judge Richard J. Leon issued a temporary restraining order that the Administration shall not terminate the employment of any IMLS staff or place any additional IMLS staff on administrative leave The intent to undercut and eliminate the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is extremely shortsighted and perilous for the millions of Americans who rely on our public Library funding 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 concrete difference in the lives of Americans every day The president’s executive order puts all of those services at risk Some examples of library services commonly funded through IMLS grants: Since the “implementation of the decision to dismantle IMLS is already well along,” they write the case is “ripe for review.” Sonderling—filed by the ALA and AFSCME against acting IMLS director Keith Sonderling Office of Management and Budget director Russell Vought and IMLS and DOGE themselves—is a matter of urgency given that 85% of IMLS’s staff is on paid administrative leave and facing a May 4 reduction in force Leon of the District of Columbia is handling the case The response describes the actions of the defendants as “arbitrary and capricious” and “unconstitutional,” and it challenges the executive action’s hobbling of IMLS “to the point of preventing it from fulfilling its statutory mission” of awarding and disbursing federal grants to successful applicants “When Congress appropriates funds to an agency to use for a particular purpose the statute requires the agency to make good-faith efforts to obligate and expend all funds for the purpose for which they were appropriated.” Congress appropriated $294,800,000 to IMLS through September 30 “the President frustrates the will of Congress leaving millions of dollars in limbo.” Attorneys for the plaintiffs want the court to reject the defendants’ request for bond in the case as well saying it would “merely impose a financial barrier to litigation for plaintiffs seeking to vindicate their statutory and constitutional rights.” The defendants have argued that “security” is desirable in the case The ALA and AFSCME contend that their case addresses “violations of clear limits on executive power.” They argue that a preliminary injunction is in the public interest not only because IMLS programs “provide essential and irreplaceable library services,” but because the public needs government agencies that “abide by the federal laws.” Library advocates also are awaiting updates on Rhode Island v. Trump, a parallel lawsuit in support of IMLS filed by 21 states’ attorneys general in the District Court of Rhode Island. During the motion hearing on that case said he found it “frustrating” when attorneys for the defendants brought no evidence while attorneys for the plaintiffs supplied illustrative examples for their concerns in the case Sonderling appear ready to make similar points about evidence or the lack thereof in their motion hearing citing “no factual dispute that IMLS has already take numerous actions to shutter IMLS.” They cite “uncontradicted evidence” about federal furloughs and terminated grants plus sworn declarations from witnesses who are suffering “cognizable harm.” Findings of irreparable harm are central to both ALA v with plaintiffs’ attorneys arguing that the gutting of IMLS has a cascading effect removing specialists from the agency and obliterating competitive grant programs on which librarians and patrons depend and community services are on the chopping block Attorneys for the defendants claim that any harm is not only “alleged” and “speculative,” but “economic,” and therefore capable of being resolved through monetary relief But plaintiffs clarify that throwing money at the problem at a later date won’t remedy the grave injury compounding at this very moment counsel explained that they “seek prospective declaratory and injunctive relief; they do not seek money damages” and “the record here shows that the harm is the loss of services and jobs that are needed now not years from now.” They add: “These injuries are far from speculative; indeed many are already occurring” within the agency ALA senior director of public policy and government relations Alan Inouye explained ALA members' loss of access to IMLS library professionals and ALA's own diversion of resources to help those affected by the incapacitation of the agency; he also listed five IMLS grants to the ALA that have been terminated and three more canceled grants to which ALA is a subcontractor is involved in the case not because it receives IMLS funding but because it relies on IMLS data for collective bargaining “Undermining a union’s ability to negotiate on behalf of its library workers strikes at the core business of a union,” attorneys for the plaintiffs write Meanwhile, grassroots awareness of IMLS’s predicament is growing. Political action committee MoveOn.org is currently circulating a petition created by OverDrive digital content librarian Sarah Filiberto “Tell Trump and the GOP: Do Not Defund Our Museums and Libraries,” which has collected more than 33,000 signatures Thank you for completing the form, here is your download: "+jQuery("body").attr("docName")+" Thank you for completing the form, here is the link to your on-demand webinar: On-Demand Webinar Link — A kangaroo that apparently escaped a petting zoo in one Alabama county ended up on an interstate in another county causing quite a commotion and a wreck on Tuesday Macon County Sheriff Andre Brunson said he received a call from his dispatcher late morning telling him there was a kangaroo on Interstate 85 “Of course I didn’t believe it,” Brunson said ALEA state troopers said they responded to the area of I-85 near mile marker 46 shortly before noon Tuesday on a crash The crash happened in the southbound lanes and involved a kangaroo Troopers eventually shut down both lanes of I-85 between Auburn and Tuskegee while they worked to capture the kangaroo Brunson said law enforcement officers immediately began to try to determine where the kangaroo came from His dispatcher located a petting zoo in Lee County “We were chasing him for quite a while,” said Brunson, who went live on Facebook during the ordeal. “Traffic was stopped a long ways.” the kangaroo was shot twice with a tranquilizer gun by its owner and captured in the tree line off the interstate “We’re doing everything we can to get this kangaroo home safety,” Brunson said we see a little bit of everything here,” the sheriff said “I’ve never seen anything like it,” Brunson said You never know what you’ll see in Macon County.” ©2025 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit al.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Copyright © 2025 Lexipol. All rights reserved.Do Not Sell My Personal Information Tips on how to respond if your library’s federal funding is terminated ALA encourages grantees who receive a termination notice to consider the suggestions below and ALA is not able to provide legal advice in this matter.) WASHINGTON – An executive order issued by the Trump administration on Friday night, March 14, calls for the elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services The following statement was made by the American Library Association: school and academic libraries for generations By eliminating the only federal agency dedicated to funding library services the Trump administration’s executive order is cutting off at the knees the most beloved and trusted of American institutions and the staff and services they offer: To dismiss some 75 committed workers and mission of an agency that advances opportunity and learning is to dismiss the aspirations and everyday needs of millions of Americans And those who will feel that loss most keenly live in rural communities.  academic and special libraries deserve more Libraries of all types translate 0.003% of the federal budget into programs and services used in more than 1.2 billion in-person patron visits every year and everywhere decisions are made about libraries The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is an independent federal agency that supports libraries and museums in all 50 states and U.S IMLS administers both federal grants to states and discretionary grants to individual library entities Thank you for completing the form, here is your download: "+jQuery("body").attr("docName")+" Thank you for completing the form, here is the link to your on-demand webinar: On-Demand Webinar Link — A jail inmate threatened to shoot a Morgan County judge in the head and burn his house down on Thursday and now faces a charge of making a terroristic threat and must secure a $600,000 bond to get out of jail according to the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office was in jail for allegedly failing to register as a sex offender He was in a hearing with Morgan County Circuit Judge Charles Elliott via video link from the jail and began cussing at Elliott which said Elliott asked him to stop cussing but the inmate continued Judge Elliott asked for English to be removed from video court and (a sergeant) escorted English back to his housing unit,” according to the affidavit “While heading back to the housing unit English told (the sergeant) he was going to shoot Judge Elliott and burn his house down.” The investigator then met with English in an interview room and read him his Miranda rights but then “verbally stated and caught on audio and video recording he would shoot the Judge in the head with a 9 mm pistol,” according to the affidavit Morgan County Circuit Judge Jennifer Howell set the $600,000 bond for the terroristic threat charge with the additional conditions that if released he must wear a GPS monitor and have “no contact with any Morgan County judge.” English was convicted of a sex offense as a juvenile which triggers a requirement that he register with the Sheriff’s Office annually for 10 years in the month of his birth He has been charged twice with violating the registration requirement when he was still on probation for failing to register the previous year He was arrested and booked into the jail on April 19 © 2025 The Decatur Daily (Decatur, Ala.). Visit www.decaturdaily.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. District Court of the District of Columbia the American Library Association and the American Federation of State and Municipal Employees pushed for the court to put an immediate halt to the ongoing gutting of the Institute of Museum and Library Services before the majority of its staff is laid off this weekend "We urge the court to immediately enjoin the Administration from further damaging the nation’s libraries,” ALA president Cindy Hohl emphasizing the critical nature of this decision the Trump administration is causing further harm to libraries across the country and the millions of Americans who rely on libraries as it continues to illegally dismantle IMLS,” she added some of which are laying off staff and discontinuing statewide services such as interlibrary loans IMLS competitive grant projects have been shut down some in the middle of new programs that libraries and patrons depend on.” The hearing comes at a tipping point for the IMLS Only 12 employees presently remain at the agency and none previously managed the payment processing essential to disbursing awarded grants Because furloughed IMLS staffers have been unable to obtain a full retention register from the IMLS’s human resources department they are uncertain whether a reduction in force—and any opportunity to reapply for vacant positions—will be carried out according to federal protocols Several IMLS staffers have already been fired an unknown number of non-union employees were involuntarily terminated more than two weeks in advance of the announced May 4 RIF date some state librarians and library associations tell PW that their statutory IMLS Grants to States are being fulfilled Although the executive branch has announced the cancelation of congressionally mandated grants to California and Washington—a move whose legality remains in question Some states report receiving partial payments “Texas State Library and Archives Commission got notice [in mid-April] that the remainder of Texas’s FY24 funds would be disbursed which was great news,” Wendy Woodland director of advocacy and communications for the Texas Library Association public libraries section president for the Vermont Library Association informed PW that the Vermont Department of Libraries “received a notice from the IMLS of a grant award equaling half of the total that had been allotted in 2024.” Vermont state librarian Catherine Delneo hopes the library system “will eventually receive a full allotment for 2025 similar to the $1.24 million that they received in 2024.” interim executive director of the Virginia Library Association “Virginia has gotten their third draw down and has been notified that they will be getting their fourth quarter draw down as well,” with IMLS fulfilling its FY24 agreement no one knows what will happen beyond that.” This article has been updated with additional information has been elected 2025-2026 president-elect of the American Library Association (ALA) “I am honored to be elected President of the American Library Association for 2026-27 and grateful to everyone who voted I look forward to working with library workers and advocates across every type of library in the United States and internationally and learn from each other as we seek to improve the excellent library services that we provide for our communities We will also continue to advocate for and celebrate the power of libraries to transform lives Futures; the Public Library Association; and the Association of College and Research Libraries She is also a current member of the Rainbow Round Table and the International Relations Round Table She is also a member of the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association REFORMA: The National Association to Promote Library & Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-speaking and the American Indian Library Association She is also a member of the Massachusetts Library Association and the New England Library Association She also was PLA president (2022-23) and a PLA board member Managerial Leadership in the Information Professions Simmons University; an MLIS from University of Pittsburgh; a BA in Theater from Ohio Wesleyan University; Leadership Certificate Program Northeastern University; Library Leadership for New Managers Program New data ties majority of library censorship to organized campaigns CHICAGO – The American Library Association (ALA) today released the highly anticipated Top 10 Most Challenged Books List as part of the 2025 State of America’s Libraries Report that highlights the ways libraries continue to meet the needs of their communities amid challenges to intellectual freedom New data reported to ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) shows that the majority of book censorship attempts are now originating from organized movements Pressure groups and government entities that include elected officials board members and administrators initiated 72% of demands to censor books in school and public libraries Parents only accounted for 16% of demands to censor books while 5% of challenges were brought by individual library users The 120 titles most frequently targeted for censorship during 2024 are all identified on partisan book rating sites which provide tools for activists to demand the censorship of library books “As the organized attempts to censor materials in libraries persist we must continue to unite and protect the freedom to read and support our library workers especially at a time when our nation’s libraries are facing threats to funding and library professionals are facing threats to their livelihood,” said ALA President Cindy Hohl “The movement to ban books is not a movement of parents but a movement of partisans who seek to limit our freedom to read and make different choices about things that matter,” said Deborah Caldwell-Stone Director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom “All who care about libraries and personal liberty must stand together and join the movement to halt this assault on the freedom to read." Below are the Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024: “All Boys Aren't Blue,” by George M “Gender Queer,” by Maia Kobabe (TIE) “The Bluest Eye,” by Toni Morrison (TIE) “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” by Stephen Chbosky (TIE) “Looking for Alaska,” by John Green (TIE) “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl,” by Jesse Andrews (TIE) “Crank,” by Ellen Hopkins (TIE) “Sold,” by Patricia McCormick The most common justifications for censorship provided by complainants were false claims of illegal obscenity for minors; inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters or themes; and covering topics of race Reports sent to ALA documented 821 attempts to censor library books and other materials in 2024 across all library types a decrease from 2023 when 1,247 attempts were reported ALA recorded the third highest number of book challenges since tracking began in 1990 ALA cites the following factors contributing to the decrease in documented censorship from 2023: Underreporting – Many book challenges are not publicly reported or covered by the press; therefore ALA’s year-end data only represents a snapshot of censorship in America reporting censorship poses significant risk to a library worker’s professional livelihood and personal safety Censorship by Exclusion – This occurs when library workers are prohibited from purchasing books or required to place books in restricted or less accessible areas of the library due to fear of controversy The board of supervisors of King George County Schools (VA) has given outsized influence to a 76-year old preacher who is the father of one board member and father-in-law of another the board placed restrictions on access to more than 100 titles in school libraries Restricted titles are under lock and key at the middle school and behind the librarian’s desk in the high school Parental permission is required for a student to check out any restricted title The board also assumed oversight of all books selected for purchase by school library workers Legislative restrictions – Several states have passed laws restricting the type of materials available in libraries and schools based on the ideas or topics addressed in the materials This impairs young readers’ freedom to read and the ability of parents to guide their students’ reading free from political or religious interference new state laws requiring school districts to restrict or remove library materials that are broadly deemed to include “sexual content” or controversial themes has resulted in the removal of books with literary or educational merit from school libraries that include LGBTQ+ characters or themes or the removal of books about race or racism and featuring characters of color Total number of books challenged the last 10 years: The National Library Week theme is “Drawn to the Library,” to draw communities into the library The week highlights the importance of libraries of all kinds to the communities they serve ALA is also pleased to announce the theme for Banned Books Week 2025 “Censorship Is So 1984.” With the escalation in attempts to ban books in libraries George Orwell’s cautionary tale “1984” serves a prescient warning about the dangers of censorship This year’s theme reminds us that the right to read belongs to all of us and that censorship has no place in contemporary society Banned Books Week will take place from October 5-11 Annual Event Spotlights Orwellian Book Censorship CHICAGO – The American Library Association and Banned Books Week Coalition are pleased to announce the theme for Banned Books Week 2025: “Censorship Is So 1984 Read for Your Rights.” Banned Books Week will take place October 5 – 11 With the escalation in attempts to ban books in libraries George Orwell’s cautionary tale "1984" serves a prescient warning about the dangers of censorship that censorship has no place in contemporary society “The 2025 theme of Banned Books Week serves as a reminder that censorship efforts persist to this day,” ALA President Cindy Hohl said “We must always come together to stand up for the right to read.” Last week, ALA released the Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024 list and the State of America’s Libraries report The majority of book censorship attempts now originate from organized movements and administrators initiated 72% of demands to censor books in school and public libraries The 120 titles most frequently targeted for censorship during 2024 are all identified on partisan book rating sites which provide tools for activists to demand the censorship of library books.  Libraries, schools, and nonprofit organizations that plan to participate in Banned Books Week are encouraged to apply for a Judith F. Krug Memorial Fund Programming Grant from the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) and the deadline for application is April 30 ALA is a founding member of the Banned Books Week Coalition (bannedbooksweek.org) an international alliance of diverse organizations joined by a commitment to increase awareness of the annual celebration of the freedom to read The Coalition appoints an honorary chair and youth honorary chair to lead Banned Books Week Past honorary chairs include banned authors Jason Reynolds (All American Boys literacy champion LeVar Burton (Reading Rainbow The 2025 honorary chairs will be announced in the coming weeks Banned Books Week was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in libraries Typically (but not always) held during the last week of September the annual event highlights the value of free and open access to information and brings together the entire book community — librarians and readers of all types — in shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas "As the organized attempts to censor materials in libraries persist we must continue to unite and protect the freedom to read and support our library workers especially at a time when our nation’s libraries are facing threats to funding and library professionals are facing threats to their livelihood." —ALA President Cindy Hohl library professionals and advocates stood strong for the freedom to read in 2024—continuing to provide essential services but by organized groups and elected officials While some states passed laws to restrict access and threaten library workers there were also encouraging developments—including court rulings and state actions that affirmed the right to read and supported those who defend it Press Release: American Library Association kicks off National Library Week with the Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024 and the State of America’s Libraries Report Reporters should contact:American Library Association Communications, Marketing & Media Relations Office, cmomedia@ala.org Help spread the word about the value of libraries with State of America's Libraries Report promotional tools including the Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024 You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience many of which directly or indirectly support libraries Although it is too soon to determine the overall impact of proposed changes to library funding—including IMLS grants and E-Rate discounts—we anticipate there will be more proposals to significantly reduce or outright eliminate programs There are also multiple attacks on library values and policies and inclusion are being challenged in executive orders (and likely via legislation) in the months to come This is a real and present threat and danger for all of us The American Library Association (ALA) has always done its best to avoid partisan politics choosing instead to work across the aisle to develop partnerships and relationships with individuals and organizations that share our values and support the important work of libraries Libraries are inherently nonpartisan institutions But this time a different approach may be needed ALA will continue to evaluate and respond to the widespread impact of budget cuts at the local We will continue to monitor proposed state legislation restricting access to library materials through censorship and suspension of business relationships with ALA Our survival—as institutions foundational to our democracy Our Association will most certainly be called upon to build strong coalitions with organizations that share our values and advocate for the freedom to read and advance broadband access to bridge the digital divide We remain committed to federal programs that support access to libraries and lifelong learning we amplify our voice and have the potential for greater success ALA is dedicated to stepping up its advocacy work throughout the Association during these tumultuous and frightening times We rely on our exceptional Public Policy and Advocacy Office staff members to guide our actions partnering with our multiple member-leader groups we are measured and deliberative in our response and advocacy but those tactics may no longer work in this new environment Our new advocacy campaign, Show Up for Our Libraries is a call to action for all of us who work in and use libraries I call on all of you to be vigilant and to respond quickly and directly to these challenges and threats I call on each of you to respond to our requests for calls and other tactics that help us reach state and federal legislators and decision makers and the people who use your libraries need you Our collective power—and the relationships we build—will enable us to achieve better results I am reminded that we have survived many challenges LESLIE BURGER is interim executive director of the American Library Association Marshall Breeding writes: “The library technology industry showed its maturity in 2024 Businesses have become increasingly stable and robust products delivered rich functionality But decades of consolidation have created a narrower slate of competitors resulting in a smaller number of products available for each type and size of library The marketplace is seeing more specialized solutions but fewer options Companies continue to tailor products to the diverging service needs and collections of public Library services platforms designed for academic libraries This stratification further narrows customers’ choices.” American Libraries feature, May AL: The Scoop, May 2 Charlie Osborne writes: “As a professional photographer I know that photo editing software is critical to my workflow to bring out the best in my images whether to make changes to exposure and add bokeh [the aesthetic blurring of out-of-focus areas] or other creative effects Adobe Lightroom is the gold standard for many photographers but many alternative online photo editors are also excellent options We have a great selection of options for you to test out depending on your online photo editing needs.” ZDNet, Apr. 28 Veronica Fu writes: “At first glance, libraries might appear to be unaffected by Trump’s tariffs. The official list of exempt items released by the White House includes [printed books] But the reassurance this offers libraries is limited For libraries that depend on international vendors to supply books the ripple effects of Trump’s tariffs could include disrupted shipping routes and a growing pile of administrative red tape this is a moment in which libraries must lead with intention.” Katina, Apr. 24 Jennifer Peterson writes: “In my time as a youth services librarian I visited with thousands of school children each school year in the fall and spring months to promote books Here are my top five tips I can offer as you get ready to promote your summer reading program to students this spring.” ALSC Blog, Apr. 26 Hannah Weinberg writes: “This week marks 100 days since President Trump’s January 20 inauguration. It has also been approximately 45 days since Trump signed the March 14 executive order that called for stripping the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) down to its ‘non-statutory and component functions.’ Censorship attempts persist previously granted IMLS funding has been canceled and library staffers continue to make difficult decisions about how to best maintain services for their communities Following is American Libraries’ update on the challenges libraries and librarians continue to fight under the Trump administration.” American Libraries feature, Apr. 30 Elissa Malespina writes: “April 23, the White House released an executive order titled Advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Education for American Youth It’s a headline-worthy step toward prioritizing AI literacy in schools The memo calls for coordinated federal action to provide students with ‘equitable and safe’ access to AI education As someone deeply invested in teaching AI literacy to students and educators I’m left with more questions—and concerns—than confidence The AI School Librarians Newsletter, Apr. 23 A publication of the American Library Association © 2009–2025 American Library Association CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) announced today that Lisa Varga will become the associate executive director of ALA’s Public Policy and Advocacy Office in Washington D.C Varga comes to ALA after spending nearly 15 years as executive director of the Virginia Library Association Varga increased membership from 900 to more than 5,000 increasing revenue streams as well as participating in advocacy across the state She addressed and defeated four bills in the Virginia General Assembly in 2024 and 11 bills in the 2023 session which would have impacted intellectual freedom for students She is a regular speaker at national and statewide conferences where she promotes the value of libraries and intellectual freedom “We are fortunate to have Lisa join us at a pivotal time for libraries in our nation,” Interim Executive Director Leslie Burger said experience and leadership will be vital as we advocate for libraries.” who assumed the role of interim associate executive director in 2022 and is retiring from ALA after 18 years in the Public Policy and Advocacy Office Varga has been an ALA member for 20 years where she has served on the ALA Policy Corps Intellectual Freedom Summit Steering Committee Varga was named 2024 Librarian of the Year by “Library Journal.” Varga earned a master's in library science from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh Varga will direct and manage the Public Policy and Advocacy Office Special acknowledgment of the search committee: Leslie Burger ALA interim executive director; Deborah Caldwell-Stone director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom; Sarah Dallas executive director of Southern Adirondack Library; Ed Garcia library director of Cranston Public Library; Julie Walker state librarian and vice chancellor for libraries and archives at Georgia Public Library Service; Steven Yates assistant professor and assistant director at the School of Library and Information Studies at University of Alabama; Lorelle Hopkins ALA Human Resources and Organizational Operations CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) launched a new supporter program on February 10 The ALA champions libraries across the nation and the vital services they offer Contributions will help advance key ALA initiatives including: ALA President Cindy Hohl asked members of the public to remember the critical role libraries of all kinds play in their communities and to support these vital community centers please help the American Library Association protect them,” said ALA President Cindy Hohl “Join us and keep libraries at the heart of America To learn more about how the American Library Association protects libraries and librarians, and to become a supporter of the American Library Association, visit: www.ilovelibraries.org Washington – Today the American Library Association (ALA) launched Show Up for Our Libraries “Many library advocates are rightfully concerned about what the next four years hold for our nation’s libraries Libraries – and many people we serve – are facing unprecedented challenges and uncertainty “The Show Up for Our Libraries campaign is a deliberate and well-thought-out plan that calls us to move from awareness to action Our call is not a knee-jerk response to imminent threats We must face whatever threats come our way by showing up together – library workers and public supporters in our communities – to advocate for our patrons our profession and our core values.” ALA kicked off the campaign with a proactive call for library advocates to get their elected leaders on the record about how they plan to protect the freedom to read and how they will support federal funding for libraries. An email from ALA’s Public Policy and Advocacy Office urged advocates to personalize their communications with legislators noting “Research shows that individualized messages are five times more likely than commonly used templates to influence a legislator’s decision.” Show Up for Our Libraries was launched on the heels of new leadership in the White House and the start of the 119th Congress President Trump has already issued numerous executive orders such as “Ending Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing.” ALA is analyzing them for possible action preferably in conjunction with national partners While the president has wide latitude in issuing these orders many already are being challenged in the courts and others may require Congressional action “ALA is actively working directly and in coalition to focus on the most significant threats where we might have influence and impact Showing up as a united front and engaging strategically with Congress is the best way to protect libraries and library workers.” In the first Trump Administration (2017-2021) libraries faced four consecutive attempts to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services and funding for the Library Services and Technology Act the only library-specific funding in the U.S Library advocates overcame four consecutive attempts to eliminate the agency and Congress increased funding for IMLS by $26 million “If libraries learned anything from gains made during the first Trump Administration it’s that library advocacy works,” said Hohl “But we are in a different environment now and Congressmembers on both sides of the aisle are feeling pressure from a vocal minority of citizens who want control over what’s available for everyone in their communities to read “The good news is that millions of Americans love their libraries such as parents in every corner of the nation who depend on our reading programs to make lifelong learners of their children who rely on school and college libraries to identify credible sources of information develop research skills and even find community.” the Show Up landing page includes a template for telling a library story and a form to submit library stories to ALA for use in publications and for other purposes The campaign offers a range of other free resources for advocates from social media assets (hashtag #ForOurLibraries) to a guide for setting up a congressional tour of a library as well as ALA member-exclusive videos on advocacy best practices CHICAGO – The American Library Association released a new study highlighting areas of growth for improving diversity across the library field The study titled Empowering Voices, Inspiring Change: Advancing Diversity Within Librarianship draws on qualitative research from 50 library professionals representing various genders A full explanation of the methodology can be found in the report This report aims to learn from the experiences of librarians from underrepresented groups inspire solutions to foster and support a more diverse group of library professionals and offer ideas for future research “ALA encourages the field to deeply reflect on the perspectives and voices captured in this report We know that the demographics haven’t shifted in the ways in which we would hope them to this magnifies the why,” ALA President Cindy Hohl said “It allows for real transformation to take place and that starts with defining who we are on this path The findings of this report set the foundation to allow for new and innovative projects more professional development opportunities for library workers and establishing research initiatives that speak to the various identities of this profession Literacy and Outreach Services will continue this effort to secure the necessary resources to deepen this research and build the foundations to sustain our mission of diversifying librarianship Gallup is a global analytics and advisory firm known for its expertise in public opinion research and data-driven insights Gallup has helped leaders worldwide address pressing challenges with actionable research and analysis CHICAGO — Today, the American Library Association (ALA) opened registration for the ALA 2025 Annual Conference & Exhibition to be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center and surrounding hotels in Philadelphia ALA made its first announcement of speakers with three legendary voices who will share exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes stories from their books Additional speakers will be announced soon One of the best things about ALA Annual Conference is the chance you have to connect with each other to engage in professional development sessions and activities including the ALA President’s Program with ALA President Cindy Hohl; ALA division and round table sessions that will focus on the important topics and challenges that libraries face today; ALA leadership programs Media interested in registering for the session may contact the ALA Communications and Marketing Office at cmomedia@ala.org the American Library Association (ALA) issued the following statement upon news that all staff at the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) were placed on administrative leave for an unknown length of time and local libraries will experience the impact of IMLS grant cancellations state libraries are making hard choices about what their communities may have to do without: library loans that give rural residents more choices or talking books for people with print disabilities Or do they cut summer reading programs for kids Discontinue programs for veterans or end services to small businesses libraries mean opportunity for everyone in our communities By cutting off federal support from libraries the Trump administration is cutting off opportunity for the American people – economically Republican and Democratic Presidents signed those laws Any significant reductions to the IMLS’ small and talented workforce would undermine the agency’s ability to carry out that law We thank you for your service to America’s libraries We are exploring all possible policy and legal responses to this order and we promise to mobilize library supporters nationwide to return you to the vital work entrusted to you “ALA calls on IMLS Acting Director Keith E Sonderling to continue funding for IMLS grants and return the staff needed to manage those funds to benefit the American people as mandated by Congress “ALA calls on all Congressmembers to support more opportunity for their communities by safeguarding IMLS funding and, with it, opportunity for their constituents. And, because Congress listens when library supporters speak up, we call on library users everywhere to demand their elected leaders protect the services they rely on. You can Show Up For Our Libraries with support from ALA. Visit ala.org/showup.” “Libraries play an important role in our democracy from preserving history to providing access to government information and offering access to a variety of perspectives,” said American Library Association President Cindy Hohl 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.” “Libraries and museums contain our collective history and knowledge while also providing safe spaces for learning cultural expression and access to critical public resources,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders “They represent the heart of our communities and the cultural workers who keep these institutions running enrich thousands of lives every day Library workers do everything from helping people apply for jobs to administering lifesaving care all while facing increasing violence on the job On behalf of the 42,000 AFSCME cultural workers we’re suing to stop the wrongful closure of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and protect this critical resource for our communities.” IMLS was first created and funded by Congress in 1996 and charged with supporting America’s libraries and museums The agency has had bipartisan support throughout its history having been reauthorized under the Clinton IMLS is bound by laws requiring that the agency conduct certain activities to support libraries and report on important issues to Congress The complaint explains that cutting programs at IMLS will violate the law by eliminating programs Congress has provided funding for and directed IMLS to undertake “Libraries are vital for people and communities across our nation Attacking libraries and those who ensure the continuity of their services is yet another move by the Trump administration that does nothing to make Americans’ lives better or easier,” said Skye Perryman “Reducing the IMLS workforce would undermine the agency’s ability to faithfully execute its legal obligations Democracy Forward is honored to continue our work with librarians to protect these important educational institutions in our country.” Shortly after the executive order was announced, the ALA sent a letter to the new IMLS acting director warning not to cut any programs at the agency protected by law where Democracy Forward is representing a group of Alabama families and librarians with a broad array of political and religious backgrounds in a suit to stop policies approved by the library board that threaten to keep constitutionally protected books like "To Kill a Mockingbird" off of public library shelves Read the full complaint here and the motion for preliminary injunction here This press release was updated on April 11 with information about the motion for preliminary injunction filed on April 10 the only source of dedicated federal funding for the nation’s 125,000 public ALA members have actively engaged their Congressmembers throughout the federal appropriations process to support funding for libraries libraries overcame threats to eliminate IMLS for four years straight Our combined advocacy not only preserved the agency but increased federal funding for libraries – and with bipartisan support “Americans in every state rely on their libraries All of us will feel the impact if Congress fails to continue its historic and nonpartisan federal support for libraries Now is the time to remind elected leaders of what libraries have achieved for communities.” Led by Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA-02) call for robust funding from IMLS for the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and $50 million for the Department of Education’s Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) program Companion letters in the Senate will begin to circulate in the coming weeks LSTA grants ensure that every state has access to needed resources and authority to determine their use which include a wide range of essential services such as Wi-Fi and hotspot lending access to technology and digital skills training employment support and materials for people with print disabilities IAL is the only federal program dedicated to supporting school libraries in the most high-need areas parental engagement programs and professional development for library experts to ensure children are best positioned for success. Much of the current $30 million in funding is reserved for the work of school libraries The additional $20 million requested by ALA for the IAL program would allow students in many other states to receive better literacy support and services “There is one final wall of defense against destruction of federal funding for libraries,” said Hohl: “constituents who tell elected leaders to continue providing libraries the federal resources that bring opportunity to millions of Americans—veterans where more information can be found on the FY 2026 #FundLibraries campaign the 2025 report documented censorship in libraries from the previous year ALA recorded 821 attempts to censor library books and other materials across all library types This is a decrease from the 1,247 attempts that were recorded in 2023 but still the third-highest number since ALA began tracking library censorship in 1990 and university libraries documented by ALA in 2024 involved 2,452 unique titles Here are the 10 most-frequently challenged books: the most common reasons for book challenges were false claims of illegal obscenity for minors; inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters or themes; and inclusion of topics on race organized groups—including pressure groups and elected officials—initiated nearly 72% of censorship attempts when organized campaigns were tied to 35% censorship attempts ALA also announced that the theme for Banned Books Week 2025 is “Censorship Is So 1984,” invoking the dystopian novel 1984 by George Orwell. The book is a cautionary tale about the dangers of censorship. This year, Banned Books Week will take place October 5–11 Make no mistake: The American people need to brace for more waves of uncertainty and oppression And in our role as stalwart information warriors we shall hold the front lines of democracy to ensure that intellectual freedom and the First Amendment are held in the highest regard.” American Libraries column, May The current climate of censorship threatens to unravel the very fabric of librarianship facing threats to their safety and professional integrity while at the same time library services are being stripped of their inclusivity Misinformation has damaged librarians’ reputation labeling us anti-American and labeling libraries as spaces that attempt to indoctrinate communities by making obscene information available to youth librarianship can quickly become reminiscent of a time when segregation and censorship ruled library spaces More information: bit.ly/ALA-elections Libraries are America’s sanctuaries of knowledge spaces where freedom of thought and the dignity of every individual are preserved ALA needs a president who will not only talk about equity but also work to ensure that equitable services are codified and that library workers are protected and supported when providing equitable access to information I have been a staunch advocate for intellectual freedom and inclusion working tirelessly to make libraries welcoming spaces for all I have been committed to intentionality and have taken active steps to make libraries more equitable I will work with ALA’s extraordinary members and leaders to build on the progress we’ve made as an organization I will lead efforts to make it clear that we cannot afford to become indifferent in the face of social intolerance We cannot afford to deprive communities of critical information literacy And we cannot afford to let the preferences of a few dictate the access of many I will advocate for policies that create protections for library workers against physical threats Every library worker deserves to feel secure and valued in their role as a defender of intellectual freedom I will lead efforts to change the narrative about libraries using media platforms to highlight library professionals’ essential I will work with ALA ­leadership to continue building alliances with educators and advocates to safeguard intellectual freedom and ensure diverse voices remain accessible I will advocate for more resources for school and public librarians and library workers who currently bear the brunt of censorship challenges and international libraries to explore ways to strengthen our strategies in addressing censorship issues I will also work to create greater transparency within the Association between leadership and members I will stand with all members as guardians of democracy ANDREA JAMISON is assistant professor of school librarianship at Illinois State University in Normal. Visit andreajamison.com for more info Assistant Professor of School Librarianship Illinois State University; and Maria McCauley are candidates for the 2026-27 presidency of the American Library Association Cronk currently serves as a member of Core: Leadership She’s a member of the Core 5 Year Fundraising Team and she served as president of Core in 2021-22 co-authoring ALA's Resolution to Condemn White Supremacy and Fascism as Antithetical to Library Work she served on the Board of the Library Information Technology Association and edited its popular LITA Blog She is the first woman to serve as Dean of Libraries at Tulane University in New Orleans She is Vice Chair of ARL's Advocacy and Public Policy Committee She also serves on the Board of the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries She is the co-creator and founder of PeMento: Peer Mentoring for MidCareer Library Workers Her past keynotes have covered a variety of topics from leadership to team building to systems migrations while her research has focused on scholarly communication Cronk holds an MLIS from Valdosta State University in Georgia an EdS from Georgia Southern University in Savannah and a BA from Agnes Scott College in Decatur “I’m honored and thrilled to be nominated for ALA President—thank you for this opportunity Libraries are a collective superpower for learning We empower individuals and strengthen communities The American Library Association champions and advances this vital work offering all library professionals a shared home We have deep strengths and spectacular talent and I am the loud librarian ready to amplify and advocate it,” Cronk said “With a proven record of building teams and coalitions—within ALA and beyond—I am prepared to guide the Association through this pivotal moment of challenges and opportunities Libraries are indispensable—not only providing resources but also fostering curiosity and inspiring a love of knowledge She is a current member of the Association for Library Service to Children She is also a juror for the Coretta Scott King Book Awards Round Table and immediate past chair of the Ethnic & Multicultural Information Exchange Round Table She served as ALA Councilor at Large (2021-2019) and she was chair of the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom Working Group for Diversity in Collection Development (2017) She is the Social Justice Chair for the Institute of Humane Education a Community of Practice Group Leader for Diverse Book Finder and library ambassador for Lee and Low Books She authored “Decentering Whiteness in Libraries: A Framework for Inclusive Collection Management Practices,” which is part of the Beta Phi Mu scholars series She was also the 2022-2023 Teaching Scholar-in-Residence in the area of Equity and Inclusion for Illinois State University Jamison has a PhD in Information Studies from Dominican University; an MLIS also from Dominican; a Master of Teaching from Concordia University; and a BBA from Robert Morris College “Libraries have a unique role in empowering people not only by providing equitable access to information but by fostering critical thinking and an understanding of our pluralistic world The role of librarians has remained consistent: we assist all people in becoming effective and efficient seekers and disseminators of information,” Jamison said today’s climate of censorship and social tension has created widespread misinformation about the work of librarians and has jeopardized the safety and wellbeing of many library workers I am committed to supporting efforts that counter assaults on intellectual freedom uphold the reputation of library professionals advocate for legislative protections for library workers and stand in unwavering support of every librarian dedicated to serving their communities.” Futures; and Public Library Association and the Association of College and Research Libraries REFORMA: The National Association to Promote Library & Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-speaking “It is an honor to stand for the 2026-27 ALA presidential election ALA is a vital organization that is a lifeline for so many in the areas of professional development and serving for the past thirteen years as a public library director and Public Library Association President,” McCauley said “I am excited to bring my executive leadership and governance experience and passion for libraries to the presidential role With my inclusive leadership practices and facilitation skills I will work across the association to strengthen ALA Jamison and McCauley will have an opportunity to make a statement and answer questions from members in a virtual ALA Presidential Candidates' Forum to be held in February 2025 The information submitted on this form will be used for the web ballot petition candidates and nominated candidates are treated exactly the same They are not differentiated on the ballot because they are on equal footing and are all viable candidates for these positions The petition period for the 2025 election is open now and will close on December 13 Ballot mailing for the ALA election will begin on March 10, 2025, and will run through April 2, 2025. Individuals must be members in good standing to vote in the 2025 ALA elections. Renew your membership online or by calling 1-800-545-2433, option 1. For more information, please visit the ALA Election webpage American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services ALA has been the trusted voice of libraries advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all Retired librarians and library workers can be among the most effective library advocates A panel of speakers will share how they found their post-career roles in library advocacy Learn how to transition into being a library Trustee/Board Member Find out how to work with other individual and groups on behalf of the library at the local This program is presented by United for Libraries and the Retired Members Round Table CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) has announced the names of the 21 nominated candidates who are running for a total of 12 at-large seats on the ALA Council to serve the 2025-2028 term The following candidates were accepted by the ALA Nominating Committee (listed alphabetically by last name): Kate Alderete Deputy State Librarian New Mexico State Library Santa Fe Martha AndersonOrganizational Development Director & Head of Digital Services University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Farmington Robbie Barber Teacher-Librarian DeKalb County School DistrictTucker Stacie Cannon Postgraduate Student Northeastern State University - Library Media Information Technology Tulsa Douglas CraneLibrary Director Palm Beach County Library System West Palm Beach Sara Dallas Director Southern Adirondack Library System Albany Emily Drabinski Associate Professor Queens College Division of Innovation & Community Engagement San Diego Public Library San Diego WebJunction OCLC Seattle WA Library technology & research Collections and Content Strategies Dartmouth Libraries Lebanon Lesliediana Jones Associate Director for Public Services Harvard Law School Library Cambridge Robin Kear Liaison Librarian University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Katherine Lester Adjunct Faculty - School Libraries Wayne State University South Lyon MI Educator of Youth & School Librarians - Academic Institution Ramin Naderi Adult Librarian III Los Angeles Public Library Los Angeles Jerome Offord Associate University Library and Chief Diversity OfficerHarvard University Library Cambridge Anchalee Panigabutra-Roberts Head of Cataloging University of Tennessee LibrariesKnoxville Conrrado Saldivar Tech Services Manager Natrona County Library Casper Amanda Sand Library Director Dubuque County Library District Dubuque Evviva Weinraub Lajoie Vice Provost University at Buffalo Buffalo University Library Marquette University Raynor Memorial Libraries Arlington Aaron Wilson Serials/Government Information Cataloging Librarian University of Maryland College Park The Nominating Committee extends its gratitude to all the members who put forth their names to be considered for this position and have expressed the desire to serve the Nominating Committee selects candidates from within the general membership for council members-at-large American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, ALA has been the trusted voice of libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org readers will discover the important stories of many trailblazing Black women who fought racism and other hardships in their libraries and communities to become leaders of our profession These personal histories of advocacy and resilience: Examination copies are available for instructors who are interested in adopting this title for course use is the Augusta Baker Endowed Chair and a professor at the School of Information Science at the University of South Carolina She was named a Mover & Shaker by Library Journal in 2007 and was honored with the 2017 ALA Achievement in Library Diversity Research Award presented by the Office for Diversity and Literacy Outreach Services (ODLODS) She was the Illinois Library Association’s 2019 Intellectual Freedom Award winner recognizing her work in combating online hate and bullying in LIS and she was selected as the Association for Library and Information Science Education’s 2019 Excellence in Teaching award winner she was presented with the Martin Luther King Jr Social Justice Award by the University of South Carolina; in 2022 the Black Caucus of ALA granted her their Advocate Award; and in 2024 ALA presented her with the Lippincott Award Founding editor of ALA Neal-Schuman’s Critical Cultural Information Studies book series Cooke has published numerous articles and book chapters Her books include "Fake News and Alternative Facts: Information Literacy in a Post-truth Era," and the forthcoming works "Information Services to Diverse Populations Second Edition" and "Foundations of Social Justice." CHICAGO – The American Library Association (ALA) Information Today Library of the Future Award Jury is delighted to announce that Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Library of the Future Award for its work with bringing awareness and education of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the library community a cross-functional team dedicated to understanding AI’s impacts and implications while also responsibly exploring its potential for librarianship and the communities served by libraries The Task Force developed three primary goals: 1 Increasing overall CML stakeholder awareness and knowledge of AI developments; 2 Helping CML staff understand the potential influence of AI on their work and workforce; and 3 Helping CML staff understand the potential impact AI will have on patron behaviors as well as on service and program expectations in collaboration with CML Adult Services team created a comprehensive training program for staff including the four-week ‘Summer of AI Training Series.’ This series covered essential topics such as prompt engineering the team developed "Byte-sized AI," compact graphics outlining the history of AI CML's commitment to equipping its staff with AI knowledge and tools has empowered over 800 employees to confidently serve patrons catering to different levels of familiarity and interest introducing more than 100 patrons to AI basics and tools including the ALA Core Forum and the Ohio Library Council Right Click IT Conference "The jury is thrilled to recognize Columbus Metropolitan Library's AI Task Force for Adult Programming with the Library of the Future Award," said Christopher Proctor Chair of the ALA Information Today Library of the Future Award Jury "Their dedication to leveraging technology to enhance library services and support their community is truly commendable These initiatives have positioned CML as an emerging leader in GenAI education within the library community." 2025 Award Jury members: Christopher Proctor Indiana University Southeast (Chair); Cynthia Jewett About the Information Today Library of the Future Award: An annual award consisting of $1,500 and a citation honoring a library or support organization for innovative planning for or development of patron training programs about information technology in a library setting and administered by a jury of the ALA Awards Committee This week marks 100 days since President Trump’s January 20 inauguration. It has also been approximately 45 days since Trump signed the March 14 executive order that called for stripping the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) down to its “non-statutory and component functions.” In response, the American Library Association (ALA), along with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration a federal court hearing will rule on ALA’s motion for a preliminary injunction to stop the further dismantling of IMLS Following is American Libraries’ update on the many challenges libraries and librarians continue to fight under the Trump administration. For information on actions against libraries by the Trump administration earlier this year, see our March 19 article, “Tracking the Trump Administration’s Attacks on Libraries.” On March 31, all but 12 of IMLS’s approximately 75 staffers were informed via email that they had been placed on paid administrative leave for up to 90 days and that a reduction in force would take place May 4 Furloughed staffers face continued job uncertainty They report that they have not had access to the full retention register which reveals federal workers’ standing in a reduction of force based on several employment factors US Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling was appointed by Trump and sworn in as acting head of IMLS on March 20. In a statement Sonderling vowed to “revitalize IMLS and restore focus on patriotism.” and inclusion] grants is OVER” received a chorus of opposition in the comments As of April 20, the Chief Officers of State Library Agencies has documented 90 IMLS grants that have been reported canceled The canceled grants cover a range of topics related to regular library practice and at least 18 projects at tribal libraries State libraries rely on IMLS to fund services like interlibrary loan and digital loan platforms such as Libby and Hoopla. ALA President Cindy Hohl said in a March 31 statement state libraries are making hard choices about what their communities may have to do without.” Each state relies on IMLS for millions of dollars in funding each year While most states had already received a portion of their funds before the early April staffing cuts libraries have had to quickly plan for a post–federal funding reality Though the full effects are not yet evident notable changes to library services have occurred across the country Meanwhile, the censorship attempts in school libraries run by the US military that began earlier this year have spread to the university level “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K–12 Schooling,” which seeks to remove materials related to DEI On April 9, the assistant secretary of the Army sent a memo ordering the removal of DEI materials from Army libraries across the country, including that at the US Military Academy at West Point. A similar memo sent to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs requested that a preliminary list of titles to be removed be provided by April 30 Both the Army and Air Force have said that books are being marked only for potential removal and will not imminently disappear from shelves In January, ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom published guidance for libraries that encounter immigration authorities. In addition, libraries such as the Niles-Maine Library in Illinois have developed policies that will allow ICE agents into public areas of the library but prevent them from entering private spaces HANNAH WEINBERG is digital librarian and archivist at ALA Optimism is a discipline—a practice rooted in critical hope that empowers us to confront challenges and find or forge paths forward Libraries exemplify this commitment to progress and the American Library Association (ALA) is uniquely positioned to amplify our impact by supporting the expertise and creativity of library workers I seek the office of president to help us meet this moment and shape a future worthy of ALA’s legacy the library workers who make it all possible Libraries aren’t just essential—they’re transformational Whether we’re safeguarding intellectual freedom the challenges we face require collective effort My leadership is rooted in bringing people together to create solutions grounded in collaboration and shared purpose Beyond leading a university library system I have dedicated my career to advancing the mission of libraries through professional organizations and metadata specialists into a thriving ALA division fostering a shared sustainable future for these distinct communities I co-developed the Elsevier Backflip model making tens of thousands of articles freely accessible worldwide through collective action As vice chair of the Association of Research Libraries’ Advocacy and Public Policy Committee I’ve worked to engage publishers and policymakers addressing critical accessibility challenges and reinforcing libraries’ role as champions of equitable information access These experiences reflect my commitment to leveraging collaboration and strategic partnerships to advance libraries’ transformative impact I also value the power of grassroots leadership to spark change across all library types a peer-mentoring group for mid-career library professionals navigating the complexities of life and career My commitment to fostering healthier leadership practices underscores my dedication to building community within our profession My platform builds on the important work of past leaders and fosters the flexibility and capacity needed to tackle our priorities head-on We can ensure libraries lead so that communities succeed I’m ready to serve and hope to earn your support LINDSAY CRONK is dean of libraries and academic information resources at Tulane University in New Orleans. Visit cronkthevote.com for more info fondly remembers trips to the public library in his hometown of New Bern Lewis’ parents would take him to the library housed in the historic John Wright Stanly House From those early memories to his more recent involvement serving on the Board of Trustees of the District of Columbia Public Library Lewis has maintained a special connection to libraries The approximately $25 million bequest is truly transformational and will fund scholarships for aspiring librarians ensuring future generations of highly educated and committed librarians prepared to meet the informational needs of their communities Lewis’ gift will fund library school scholarships for students with demonstrated financial needs These scholarships will benefit legions of young people who would otherwise be unable to pursue professional librarianship.  “As the first Spectrum Scholar elected as ALA President I am proof that scholarships help students obtain degrees to elevate their careers and we are grateful for this gift to support the library profession,” said ALA President Cindy Hohl. “At the American Library Association we know the work of our librarians across all library types is incredibly important to help strengthen the impact of knowledge workers in society as we strive to serve as leaders for the public good The role of the library is to provide a safe space for everyone to learn together and librarians work hard to ensure their libraries serve the whole community We know this gift will help aspiring librarians obtain education to help us serve our communities in a good way.”    where he leads the Lewis Group as Senior Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager Lewis has demonstrated his commitment to libraries and their communities by generously volunteering his time including service as a Member of the Board of Visitors at the library of his alma mater A career librarian and longtime friend of Mr Lewis inspired him to become a candidate for the Library Trustee Board at the District of Columbia Public Library With appointments confirmed by the mayor of the District of Columbia and the City Council Lewis’ service at the District of Columbia Public Library spanned 10 years Lewis credits his commitment to libraries to his parents “Libraries are the most democratic institutions we have,” he said not only from the books but from the resources and full offerings libraries provide to their communities Libraries are one of our last community spaces where people can go without economic barrier to entry and be welcome.”    Lewis’ exceptionally generous bequest ensures the library profession will remain strong for years to come by funding scholarships,” she said “The gift will enable generations of library leaders to serve their communities by removing the financial restrictions for those without the economic means to afford their master’s in library sciences.” The American Library Association provides more than $300,000 in scholarships annually for studies toward master’s degrees in library and information science at ALA-accredited library schools Lewis could triple the funds available to support scholarships significantly expanding educational access.    As the American Library Association approaches its 150th anniversary Lewis’ generosity garners a distinguished place in ALA history while positively impacting the future of librarianship About the American Library Association  CHICAGO —Published by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and ALA Editions, “Growing Teen Engagement: Strategies to Captivate Secondary Learners” is your essential resource for transforming your secondary school library into a thriving You can ensure that your school library is a place where teens feel seen Whether you’re looking to inspire creativity Jessica Fitzpatrick’s book gives you the tools to create a school library that supports the full spectrum of teen development The American Association of School Librarians (AASL), a division of the American Library Association (ALA) empowers leaders to transform teaching and learning CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) announces the opening of the third year of the ALA Building Library Capacity Grants that will provide grants to public libraries assisting New Americans (immigrants and refugees) Up to sixteen $10,000 grants will be awarded to successful applicants nationwide. The application site is open now Information on the grant can be found at the Building Library Capacity Grant website. There will be a webinar information session on Monday Registration is required and the session will be recorded Since their inception public libraries in the United States have provided resources and education for New Americans (immigrants and refugees.) Public libraries empower New Americans through English language lessons books and information resources in various languages of their community steel magnate and philanthropist who funded the construction of over 1,500 public libraries in urban and rural libraries across the country “There is not such a cradle of democracy upon the earth as the Free Public Library nor wealth receives the slightest consideration.” The grants are to bolster library operations and services including literacy and other skill development as well as maintaining and amplifying existing service strategies or adding new ones to make an impact The ALA Building Library Capacity Grants are supported through a three-year grant from the Andrew W Each year focuses on helping add capacity to different segments of the library community Mellon Foundation is the nation's largest supporter of the arts and humanities the Foundation has been guided by its core belief that the humanities and arts are essential to human understanding The Foundation believes that the arts and humanities are where we express our complex humanity and that everyone deserves the beauty we seek to build just communities enriched by meaning and empowered by critical thinking CHICAGO – The American Library Association and Unite Against Book Bans invite the community to participate in Right to Read Day The theme this year is “Drawn to Freedom” building upon National Library Week’s theme of “Drawn to the Library.” Right to Read Day 2025 honors not just the freedom to read but the other opportunities libraries provide -- the freedom to access information Right to Read Day was launched in 2023 to encourage public action on behalf of libraries, which are facing an unprecedented deluge of censorship attempts. The event coincides with the release of ALA’s Top 10 Most Challenged Books list and the State of America’s Libraries Report we commemorate Right to Read Day and ask everyone to celebrate and defend the freedoms that are found in our libraries,” ALA President Cindy Hohl said Acclaimed award-winning graphic novelist Nate Powell (March trilogy and Run with John Lewis and Andrew Aydin; Swallow Me Whole; Fall Through; Save It for Later) designed the artwork for this year’s Right to Read Day “Libraries embody the promise of a free society serving its community,” Powell said “I wanted to highlight the library's role in providing access to cooking classes voter registration and tax preparation resources and the immeasurable value of having a shared space with neighbors." Use the hashtags #RightToReadDay and #DrawnToFreedom in posts ALA and Unite Against Book Bans thanks Authors Against Books Bans and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators for their invalualble support of the social media campaign and Right to Read Day National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities Unite Against Book Bans is an initiative of the American Library Association and local partner organizations and tens of thousands of individual supporters and mobilizes the public to advocate in their communities for the right to read and to defeat attempts at every level of government to censor reading material They are the places where ideas are hatched libraries offer patrons opportunities to increase their understanding and open portals to other worlds and new knowledge landscapes We are living in a time of uncertainty: We have seen significant censorship attempts while social and economic inequities persist We have also seen remarkable services and programs created and offered by gifted library workers and partners across the US and internationally I am excited for the opportunity to work with members to lead ALA in this challenging time to share our stories and to build a skilled My background includes directing libraries in California and Massachusetts for 13 years; working in academic libraries for 10 years; and serving as Public Library Association (PLA) president (2022–2023) I am a Spectrum Scholar and member of the Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association Both experiences have been pivotal and have allowed me to grow in connection with other diverse library professionals and served as touchstones for future Association engagement I am a Korean American who was raised in Connecticut and frequented the Simsbury (Conn.) Public Library I went to Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware and attended graduate school at University of Pittsburgh where I was a government documents intern at Hillman Library My first trip back to South Korea was when I attended IFLA Congress in 2006 It was there that I developed a great appreciation for international librarians My respect for small and rural librarians—central figures in com­munity life—deepened when visiting family in Ocracoke I pursued my PhD at Simmons University in Boston while I worked full time and started a family I am excited to get to work and respectfully ask for your vote MARIA MCCAULEY is director of libraries at Cambridge (Mass.) Public Library. Visit mariaforlibraries.com for more info library director of Clinton-Macomb Public Library in Michigan has been elected treasurer of the American Library Association (ALA) for 2025–2028 Neal received 7,312 votes in the uncontested election Neal will step into his role as treasurer at the close of the 2025 ALA Annual Conference in Philadelphia “It is an incredible honor to serve the profession in this capacity as we prepare to celebrate ALA’s sesquicentennial I look forward to working with the ALA staff and member leaders to resolve the association’s financial challenges and ensure it is well positioned to serve current and future generations of librarians and library workers.” Neal has been the library director at Clinton-Macomb since 2006 he was assistant director at Clinton-Macomb and he worked at the Rochester Hills Public Library as a page/clerk/systems and facilities manager He also served as an adjunct clinical associate professor at the University of Michigan School of Information (2017-23) He is a member of the Public Library Association and served as PLA president (2014-15) He is currently on the PLA Budget and Finance Committee and an ALA Policy Corps Fellow He is a member of the Rainbow Round Table and the Intellectual Freedom Round Table He served on the ALA Executive Board (2020-23) He was also president of the Michigan Library Association earlier in his career He holds an MSI-LIS from the University of Michigan and a BA in Spanish/German/Honors College from Oakland University CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) has reopened its search for an executive director in partnership with executive search firm Isaacson The search will be led by a steering committee comprising ALA member leaders The selected candidate will succeed Interim Executive Director Leslie Burger ALA’s Executive Board chose to relaunch its search for the position “We are excited to embark on our search for a new executive director,” said ALA President Cindy Hohl “This leadership position is critical as we navigate the years ahead We seek candidates who have knowledge of the library community and the urgent issues we face We also will look for people who are expertly qualified to lead our strategic agenda as we head into our 150th anniversary in 2026 which will celebrate libraries and library workers and their important place in communities throughout the country.” The association will hire as soon as the right candidate emerges. Learn more here. About Isaacson, Miller Isaacson, Miller is an executive search firm specializing in recruiting transformative leadership for mission-driven organizations. An employee-owned firm founded with the fundamental belief that diversity strengthens our society and the organizations that function within it, we have offices in Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Washington, DC. For more information on Isaacson, Miller, visit http://www.imsearch.com several states received written notification from Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Acting Director Keith Sonderling that their IMLS grants were cancelled ALA President Cindy Hohl made the following statement: "Withdrawing library grants is a callous move at any time but downright cruel at a time when it's getting harder for many Americans to make ends meet - most of all The White House may have no qualms about slashing opportunity for jobseekers but Congress has the power to restore support for services their constituents rely on It's time for elected leaders to show up for our libraries ALA calls on every person with a library story to remind their Congressmembers and elected officials at every level why America's libraries deserve more George M. Johnson's memoir All Boys Aren't Blue has been a target of book challenges for years. According to a new report by the American Library Association (ALA) The ALA defines a challenge as "an attempt to remove or restrict materials, based upon the objections of a person or group." Other frequently challenged books include Maia Kobabe's Gender Queer Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye and Stephen Chbosky's The Perks of Being a Wallflower there were 821 attempts to censor library books across all library types in 2024 though still the third-highest number of book challenges recorded by the ALA The report also noted that 72% of demands to censor books in school and public libraries came from "pressure groups board members and administrators" compared to the 16% that came from parents A majority of the titles challenged were either about queer people or people of color "We are witnessing an effort to eliminate entire genres and categories of books from library shelves in pursuit of a larger goal of placing politics and religion over the well-being and education of young people and everyone's right to access and find information in our libraries," wrote Deborah Caldwell-Stone director of the ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom Below is the list of the ALA's top 10 most challenged books in 2024: Become an NPR sponsor we shall hold the front lines of democracy to ensure that intellectual freedom and the First Amendment are held in the highest regard With a network that’s 125,000 libraries strong We must espouse the rights of Americans as we uphold the Library Bill of Rights and the core values of our field We have already witnessed 100 days of perilous actions taken against the people of this country under the guise of administrative efficiency the temporary closure of a presidential library a chilling effect on free speech on campuses inflicting suffering on others—these are not acts of leadership but crimes against humanity and the American way of life We must ask ourselves: What will we allow in this moment Because whatever we allow now is what will continue And when barriers to truthful reporting arise we must seek the truth and hold accountable elected officials the same officials we trusted to be our collective voice In our role as stalwart information warriors we shall hold the front lines of democracy Are you prepared to defend access to accurate information for the public good Are you ready to ensure sound policies to protect collections In January, ALA launched Show Up for Our Libraries a campaign to harness the power of advocates to persuade policymakers about libraries’ crucial role and state officials to share stories about why libraries matter and ask for their support for library funding and we must solicit support to help create healthy communities in every state Did you ever think America in the 21st century would be so fractured now is the time to remember: There was a time in this country—after Indians were “discovered”—when we were called “merciless Indian savages” in the Declaration of Independence and then forcibly removed from our homelands and placed onto reservations in remote areas without access to the natural resources we needed to survive It was to punish us for escaping attempted genocide our children were forced into boarding schools where they underwent racist assimilation tactics and where the bodies of the children who never made it out still lie buried The federal government later gave tribes blood quantum cards to limit our citizenship They were devised to prove our savage ancestry similar to the way horses and dogs are classified by their identity and worth Hearing that people are again being forced to show cards to prove their right to be here sounds all too familiar This is the very moment when all eyes must open wide in America CINDY HOHL is Dakota of the Santee Sioux Nation and works in Missouri on the ancestral homelands of the Kaw/Kansa in his capacity as acting director of the IMLS along with the IMLS itself; President Donald Trump; and U.S DOGE Service acting administrator Amy Gleason The lawsuit District Court for the District of Columbia argues that the administration’s recent actions—which include firing most IMLS staff and effectively shutting down the organization’s operations—are both illegal and violate the first two articles of the Constitution: Article I which establishes the separation of powers and designates Congress as the only body with authority to pass laws creating government agencies which enumerates the president’s duty to “take care that the Laws be faithfully executed.” It also alleges that the defendants’ actions violate the Administrative Procedure Act which establishes the responsibility of the judiciary to “hold unlawful and set aside agency action...found to be arbitrary or otherwise not in accordance with law.” “Defendants’ evisceration of the agency will have immediate and disastrous consequences for Plaintiffs ALA and AFSCME as well as their members and the public.” The groups seeks an injunction to “immediately cease actions to shut down IMLS’s operations in a manner not authorized by Congress,” as well as the reinstatement of IMLS employees the restoration of its computer systems and websites “Defendants took these actions to dismantle IMLS and they were taken without congressional authorization,” the suit alleges “Congress is the only entity that may lawfully dismantle the agency not the President and certainly not DOGE.” The filing also points to the potential for damage from the cancellation of statutorily required grants at libraries across the country following the cancellation of several last week “It is only a matter of time before Defendants cancel en masse IMLS grants that fund activities at libraries across the country the severely reduced workforce will not be able to effectively and timely process grant payments and applications,” it asserts.“Without grant funding or IMLS staff to process reimbursements local and state libraries will suffer an immediate and irreparable inability to pay vendors or staff hired in reliance on IMLS’ promise to make these reimbursements IMLS provides important day-to-day services and advice to libraries across the country pleading with Congress to reject the executive order to close IMLS and to restore the agency’s funding “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,” said ALA president Cindy Hohl, in a statement library director of Clinton-Macomb Public Library in Michigan; and Joel Thornton are candidates for the treasurer of the American Library Association for 2025-2028 “It is an honor to be invited to stand for election at this critical juncture in ALA’s history We will be celebrating our sesquicentennial and implementing a new Operating Agreement we will be making difficult decisions on how to achieve ALA’s financial stability for the short term and sustainability for the long term,” Neal said “We must ensure ALA’s services and products align with the changing needs and expectations of our 50,000 members while providing good value for their hard-earned membership dollars Future generations of library workers are counting on all of us to work together to overcome ALA’s numerous challenges which are significant but not insurmountable.” Thornton is a Spectrum Scholar who has worked as the associate dean for collections & scholarly communication at the University of Utah since 2022 he was director of research & instruction at the University of Arkansas and interim associate dean for research & learning also at the University of Arkansas He began his career in libraries at Texas A&M University He is a current member of the Association of College & Research Libraries and the Association for Information Science and Technology He has served as treasurer and chair of the finance committee of the Fayetteville (AR) Public Library Foundation Board He is on the Budget & Finance Committee for the Center for Research Libraries and is the BCALA treasurer He served as a mentor for the Library Leadership and Management Association section and the Spectrum Scholars program and served on the ALA – BRASS Education Committee Thornton holds a Master of Science in Operations Management and a Project Management Graduate Certificate from the University of Arkansas He also holds a Master of Science in Information Science from the University of North Texas and a Bachelor of Business Administration–Accounting from Pittsburg State University he has completed the Harvard Leadership Institute for Academic Librarians and the ARL Leadership and Career Development Program “I am delighted to stand for election as ALA treasurer As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a librarian Trust and transparency represent core values of the CPA’s code of ethics which I would adhere to in serving the members’ interests,” Thornton said I will collaborate with leadership and stakeholders to ensure that members receive the expected value from the association identifying solutions to increase organizational resiliency and the ability to thrive in any economic environment will be a key focus I will work to address long-standing challenges like escalating operational costs and declining revenue to best position ALA for the future.” Neal and Thornton will have an opportunity to make a statement and answer questions from members in a virtual ALA Treasurer Candidates' Forum to be held in February 2025 Congress will soon begin writing appropriations bills which will set funding levels for government programs in fiscal year 2026 Library supporters must Show Up for Our Libraries and protect library funding Federal funding for libraries is under severe threat A March 14 executive order directed the elimination of the only federal agency dedicated to funding library services Congress writes the laws and can decide to overturn the executive order and continue funding IMLS ALA policy experts will share how we are fighting back how library supporters across the country can engage with their Congressmembers and why it’s urgent for everyone to Show Up for Our Libraries in defense of federal library funding Automatic captions will be enabled for this event you will still receive access to the recording If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact us at ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100