Dr. Jill Underly urges protection of vital funding and resources essential to state’s libraries and communities
MADISON — State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly today released the following statement regarding Wisconsin joining a lawsuit suing the Trump administration to stop the dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
“Funding through the IMLS is crucial for supporting the vital services our libraries offer to Wisconsinites,” State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly said. “Cutting staff and jeopardizing this funding would have serious consequences for both our libraries and the communities that rely on them. We must protect these resources to make sure every Wisconsinite can continue to access the opportunities libraries provide.”
The IMLS administers the Library Services and Technology Act’s “Grants to States Program,” the largest source of federal funding support for libraries. Wisconsin received $3.23 million for libraries through the grant program in 2024, helping libraries offer programs supporting workforce development, providing summer reading opportunities, fostering literacy for all ages, preserving local tribal history, and much more. More information on federal funding to libraries, including an interactive map, are available on the DPI’s “Tracking Federal Funding” webpage.
