Education Department Zeros Out IMLS Funding for 123,000 Public Libraries

The Education Department eliminated all funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services, cutting off federal support for 123,000 public libraries across the country. IMLS distributed approximately $295 million annually in grants supporting library programs, rural internet access, early literacy, and digital equity initiatives. The cut was part of DOGE-directed agency eliminations and required no congressional vote because IMLS operates on discretionary appropriations subject to executive impoundment claims.