One of the greatest ways to support C.C. Mellor Memorial Library is to advocate for the importance of a well-funded, public library in your community.
There are many ways to become a library advocate:
- Speak to your local council members and express your appreciation for the library
- Speak to your state senators and representatives and express the importance of libraries
Executive Order on the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
On March 14, the Trump administration issued an executive order intended to reduce “non-statutory” functions and components of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an independent federal agency that supports libraries, archives and museums in all 50 states and U.S. territories.
While the exact implications of this executive order on state and local libraries are still largely unknown, C.C. Mellor Memorial Library’s staff, director, and Board of Trustees want to assure all patrons and community members that our commitment and capability of providing library services remains steadfast.
CCM’s funding structure does not include any direct dollars from IMLS or any federal institution. We are proudly funded through the county, municipalities, school district, and patrons that we serve. While there is the possibility that we could see changes to state library support services and grant opportunities in the future, CCM is in no danger of losing funding or experiencing disruptions to the services and resources we provide.
CCM leadership will continue to closely follow the developments and openly communicate with our community about any potential impacts of the executive order.
There are many ways to stay involved and advocate against this executive order:
- Send a message or call your Senators and Representatives urging them to overturn the executive order and protect IMLS funding (see above)
- Talk to your local council members about the great work done at public libraries and the importance of funding them (see above)
- Educate yourself and others on the work of IMLS and the importance of public libraries
- Encourage the people in your network to use library resources and services
- Send a letter to the editor into your local newspaper, expressing your feelings about the IMLS cuts and why they need to be funded
The staff, director, and board of C.C. Mellor Memorial Library remain grateful for our patrons, community members, and advocates who continue to support our library and the work that we do.
Follow these links to learn more: