US Edition
Plaintiffs settle with Trump administration, halting cuts to agency that funds US libraries
The agreement rescinds 2025 staff reductions and lets the agency keep awarding grants for libraries and museums, officials said.
- On Thursday, The American Library Association and American Federation announced a settlement with the Justice Department ensuring IMLS will continue awarding grants and operating programs that support libraries and museums.
- President Donald Trump signed a March 14 executive order labeling IMLS 'unnecessary,' prompting the administration to slash staff and grants in a cost-cutting effort that began last year.
- IMLS distributes more than $200 million annually to support museums and libraries, which faced reduced hours and services after the administration began shuttering operations, American Library Association president Sam Helmick said.
- All 2025 RIFs for staff were rescinded, and affected employees are authorized to return to work, as the agency halts further cuts to "effectuate" the executive order's purpose.
- Following a separate federal judge's recent approval to withdraw an appeal, plaintiffs including Democracy Forward will file for a joint stipulation of dismissal in seven days if the government adheres to the agreement.
17 Articles
17 Articles
Librarians, union settle with Trump administration over federal IMLS cuts
The American Library Association and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) reached a settlement agreement over the Trump administration’s attempt to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Through the terms of the settlement, the agency can continue awarding grants, doing research and operating programs. Previously terminated grants have been reinstated. In addition, any layoffs IMLS had to issue u…
Associated Press News
Plaintiffs settle with Trump administration, halting cuts to agency that funds US libraries
Plaintiffs challenging the Trump administration's cost-cutting measures against a library funding agency have settled with the Justice Department.
Institute of Museum and Library Services Saved from Defunding After Legal Challenge
The American Library Association, together with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees–the nation’s largest union of cultural workers– has reached a favorable settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice, thwarting the Trump administration’s plan to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). According to an April 9 press release from the American Library Association (ALA), the settlement ensures …
ALA and AFSCME Prevail in Fight to Protect Libraries and Museums Nationwide
On April 9, 2026, the American Library Association (ALA) – the largest library association in the world – and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) – the nation’s largest union of cultural workers – reached a settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that protects the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and ensures the agency will continue carrying out its congressionally mandated w…
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