Changes to Federal Funding and the Impact on Libraries

There is growing concern about potential cuts to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the primary source of federal funding for libraries and museums nationwide. Understandably, many are wondering how these changes could impact local communities like ours.

While federal funding supports library programs across Illinois, the Glenview Public Library's core services remain strong and resilient. More than 95% of our funding comes from local support through property taxes. Thanks to our community's steadfast commitment to providing access to knowledge and information, our Library continues to thrive.

Read on to explore what federal funding supports, why it is crucial for libraries across the state, and how Glenview's ongoing local investment in our Library, ensures that we remain a vibrant and engaging resource for all.

How IMLS Strengthens Illinois Libraries

In FY2025, Illinois received $5.7 million through the IMLS Grants to States Program, placing it among the top recipients nationally. These funds have a broad impact:

Statewide Services

  • $2.5 million supports the Illinois Heartland and Reaching Across Illinois Library Systems (RAILS) under the System Area & Per Capita Grant Program. This funding enables the transfer of more than 11 million items among over 1,700 libraries through one of the nation's largest interlibrary loan networks.
  • $1.8 million funds statewide subscriptions to OCLC's WorldCat Discovery/FirstSearch services, supporting cataloging and information needs for over 1,000 libraries. In 2024, nearly 1 million citation searches were conducted.
  • $166,000 supports iLEAD, an online leadership and training portal for all public library trustees in the state.
  • $100,000 funds Illinois Libraries Present, helping over 200 public libraries offer high-quality virtual programs that would be unaffordable on their own.

Individual Library Grants

  • $526,000 for Project Next Generation, which supports at-risk youth with access to technology, software, and mentoring.
  • $420,000 for the Illinois Department of Corrections to fund materials and services at 28 correctional facility libraries.

Library Workforce Development

  • $111,000 for continuing education and leadership training for public library directors, administered through the Illinois Library Association.

State Library Operations & Programs

  • $80,000 supports the State Library's print subscriptions for reference and interlibrary loan/article requests.

Why It Matters

IMLS funding allows Illinois libraries to collaborate, expand access, and address gaps that individual institutions may not be able to fill alone. This is particularly important in rural and underserved areas and helps build a stronger, more equitable statewide library system.

How Can You Support the Library

Stay informed

Use the Library

  • Check out materials, attend programs, take advantage of library resources, and encourage others to do the same.

Support your local Library

  • Donate to or volunteer with the Friends of the Glenview Public Library or the Glenview Public Library Foundation

Connect with GPL on social media

  • Follow, share, and engage with the Library to help amplify its impact
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