Statewide book-sharing program could be in jeopardy due to federal funding cuts

The potential loss of federal funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) could severely impact the Three Rivers Public Library (TRPL), particularly its participation in MeLCat, Michigan’s statewide interlibrary loan system.

IMLS is the largest source of federal funding for libraries and museums in the U.S., distributing more than $280 million in grants in 2024. While its budget represents less than 0.01% of the federal budget, its impact is widespread, reaching hundreds of communities nationwide.

A recent executive order signed on March 14 by President Donald Trump calls for the agency’s elimination “to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law.” While initial proposals sought to shut down the agency entirely, a newly appointed director is now overseeing major funding cuts across various departments.

MeLCat enables TRPL to borrow books, DVDs, and other resources from libraries across the state, significantly expanding the materials available to local patrons. Without this service, the library’s access to a vast network of books and other materials would be severely restricted, according to TRPL Director Erin Zabonick.

“The loss of IMLS funding and, more specifically, the loss of MeLCat would have significant repercussions for Three Rivers Public Library,” Zabonick said. “Without MeLCat, we would lose access to a vast network of books, DVDs, and other materials not available in our own collection, limiting the range of resources we can offer.”

Beyond reduced access to materials, Zabonick warned the elimination of MeLCat would place a financial strain on the library, as it would have to purchase additional resources to make up for the loss. The program’s elimination would also hinder collaboration with other libraries, limiting opportunities for joint programs and access to specialized collections.

“For patrons, the absence of MeLCat would create significant inconvenience,” Zabonick said. “The ease and speed of borrowing materials from across the state would be lost, and patrons would have to rely on slower, less efficient interlibrary loan methods.”

Federal funding cuts threaten Michigan libraries

The IMLS provides crucial financial support to libraries and museums nationwide through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). According to the Michigan Department of Education, Michigan libraries have received $4.8 million annually from IMLS since 2018.

Proposed budget cuts could significantly impact libraries across the state, reducing their ability to provide interlibrary loans, digital resources, literacy programs, and other essential services. Without federal support, many Michigan libraries may struggle to maintain current service levels, forcing them to cut programs or seek alternative funding sources, according to a March 20 press release from the Michigan Department of Education.

Library advocates have urged Congress to protect IMLS funding, emphasizing its role in ensuring equitable access to information, fostering literacy, and supporting community education. The Michigan Library Association has launched a campaign encouraging residents to contact legislators and oppose the cuts.

“The databases that are used by our academic and school libraries will cease to exist. Travel stipends for library staff to stay current with trends and professional development will go away, funding for cohorts on financial sustainability, artificial intelligence, and public library management will cease,” the association wrote in a Facebook post on March 15. “The training from Niche Academy for all library workers will not be available. Contact your federal legislators, speak up.”

Najifa Farhat is a staff reporter for Watershed Voice.