The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has long served as a vital source of funding and support for libraries and museums in every state. Established by Congress in 1996 and consistently backed by bipartisan support, IMLS plays a central role in strengthening civic infrastructure, advancing access to information, and supporting public learning spaces that serve millions of Americans.

In April 2025, as the U.S. marked National Library Week, the Trump administration issued an executive order to slash programs at IMLS and gut the agency’s workforce, despite clear legal requirements directing the agency to carry out congressionally funded activities.

In response, the American Library Association (ALA) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), represented by Democracy Forward and co-counsel Gair Gallo Eberhard LLP, filed a lawsuit challenging the move.

On April 10, 2025, the plaintiffs filed a motion for a preliminary injunction to stop the dismantling of IMLS while the case proceeds. The filing highlights how the Trump administration’s actions violate federal law, including requirements under the Administrative Procedure Act.

On May 1, 2025, the federal court granted the preliminary injunction and ordered to stop the dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, stating that IMLS should will continue to operate as required by Congress while the court hears the case.

IMLS programs support everything from early childhood literacy to workforce development, digital inclusion, and access to government resources. Reducing the agency’s capacity undermines its ability to fulfill these obligations, harming libraries, museums, and the communities that depend on them.

Case: American Library Association et al v. Keith Sonderling