Libraries pushing back against plans to eliminate federal service, funding
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — If you've recently been to a Buffalo and Erie County Public Library, you might have found a notice — either posted, or inside a book — with a QR code. When scanned, it details a recent executive order from the Trump administration eliminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Signed by President Donald Trump last month, the order states it 'continues the reduction in the elements of the Federal bureaucracy that the President has determined are unnecessary.'
More than half of the library systems in the state rely on funding from the New York Public Library, which, in turn, is funded by the IMLS.
'It may not be direct here, but an attack on libraries or library systems really is going to affect all of us and how we access them and what we do with them,' said Buffalo and Erie County Public Library chief operating officer Angela Marinucci.
The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library is unique since it's primarily funded through property taxes. But Marinucci said our local libraries would still feel the effects.
According to an email sent to library patrons, since 1996 IMLS and its Grants to States Program has provided more than $8 million annually to support the New York State Library. Distributions to local library systems, including Erie County, include construction aid — which goes toward things like HVAC systems or new roofing.
'Things that are extremely expensive and will often put a library out of business,' Marinucci said. 'When you think about even just these beautiful stacks (of books) behind us, a roof leak could decimate this collection.'
John Spears is the director of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library. In the email sent to patrons, Spears said people opposed to these cuts can reach out to their representatives.
WIVB News 4 received the following statement from Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy on this issue:
'I'm proud to support our libraries, which serve as vital community hubs for learning, literacy, and opportunity, as evidenced by Congress' allocation of $294.8 million in last year's budget. However, it's also clear that the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is in need of reforms to create efficiencies and eliminate political bias and the influence of left-wing ideology. This is a short-term leave that will allow the Trump Administration to assess staffing, and they have made it clear that they intend to revitalize I.M.L.S. to restore its focus on cultivating love of country in future generations.'
Democratic Congressman Tim Kennedy also released a statement:
'Libraries are essential. The Trump administration's decision to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services threatens jobs and vital resources and services that Western New Yorkers rely on. In 2024 alone, New York received $8 million through the IMLS to fund literacy programs for kids and adults, train library staff, and expand digital equity. While local branches may not face an immediate hit, the long-term effects could be devastating if the state is forced to divert construction aid that local libraries rely on to fill the gaps with the loss of federal support. This puts local systems that are already stretched thin at further risk. I am in close communication with our local library systems and will continue to fight against these attacks on education and equity.'
In addition to reaching out to representatives, Spears also said people can donate to the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library and help lessen future impact resulting from the loss of IMLS.
Marlee Tuskes is an award-winning anchor and reporter who has been part of the News 4 team since 2019. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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