Who / What
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is an independent agency of the United States federal government. It serves as the main source of federal support for libraries and museums in the United States. IMLS’s mission is to advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development.
Background & History
IMLS was established in 1996 as an independent agency of the U.S. federal government. It was created to centralize and enhance federal support for libraries and museums across the nation. Key milestones include the expansion of grant programs and the provision of significant funding for interlibrary loan programs.
Why Notable
IMLS plays a crucial role in sustaining the nation's cultural and informational infrastructure. By providing grants and research, it strengthens the capacity of museums and libraries to serve the public. Its support for interlibrary loan programs has facilitated widespread access to literature and resources.
In the News
In 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing that IMLS be eliminated “to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law,” alongside several other agencies. This move has generated discussion about the future of federal support for cultural institutions.
