Trump has fired the head of the Library of Congress, but the 225-year-old institution remains a ‘library for all’ – so far

Trump has fired the head of the Library of Congress, but the 225-year-old institution remains a ‘library for all’ – so far

The main reading room is seen at the Library of Congress on June 13, 2025, in Washington. Kevin Carter/Getty Images Carla Hayden, the 14th librarian of Congress, who has held the position since 2016, received an unexpected email on May 8, 2025. “Carla, on behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as the Librarian of Congress is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service,” wrote Trent Mor…

Shock Firing at the Library of Congress

Key Takeaways – President Trump removed Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden without warning on May 8 – The Library of Congress holds 26 million books and 136 million other items for public use – The library began in 1800 with 740 volumes and rebounded after two great fires – Carla Hayden was the first woman and Black person to lead the institution – Critics say her dismissal threatens open access to information Introduction On May 8, President Tr…