An executive order issued Friday, March 14th, 2025 calls the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to“ be eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law, and such entities shall reduce the performance of their statutory functions and associated personnel to the minimum presence and function required by law”. The IMLS is an independent federal agency responsible for administering federal funding for state libraries.
The New Hampshire State Library currently has $1.5 million of IMLS funding which it uses to fund InterLibrary loan (ILL), as well as the online catalog and van service and staff to support it. The State Library also uses IMLS money to provide Talking Books for the Blind and Physically Disabled to New Hampshire residents, and Libby, the NH downloadable books consortium.
In 2024, Newbury Public Library users borrowed 6953 items from Libby, and borrowed 1296 items through InterLibrary Loan. InterLibrary Loan not only is used by individuals, but also our three book groups. In addition to this, we lent 819 items to other libraries across the state. We do not know how this news will impact us at this time, and we will keep you updated as we learn more. Please feel free to contact us with questions.
