The Budget Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives has preserved the fiscal year 2027 appropriation for the Institute of Library and Museum Services without any changes. This decision is closely watched regarding the future of federal funding for libraries and museums.
The committee's subcommittee approved approximately $292 million in level funding for the agency on Friday, June 5. The full committee reviewed the bill on Tuesday, June 9, and made no changes to the institute's budget.
Proposed Cuts Resurface
According to the text, President Donald Trump has again proposed eliminating the institute's funding for fiscal year 2027. This move is seen as the sixth attempt to weaken the federal agency responsible for libraries and museums.
Last year's shutdown attempt sparked strong nationwide opposition, after which the agency received nearly its entire 2026 budget. Early 2026 efforts to reduce the agency's functions and allegations of its misuse for various purposes also form part of the background to this process.
With the emergence of the 2027 proposal, advocacy groups have reportedly mobilized again. The bill will now go to the House floor, though the voting schedule has not yet been announced.
Congress will return to district work starting June 12 and will not reconvene until June 23. Afterward, the bill will move to the relevant budget subcommittee in the Senate.
Other Library-Related Bills Under Review
The report notes that other legislative proposals affecting libraries are also on the agenda. Bill 2616, passed by the House, has moved to the Senate and is described as an effort to restrict certain content in public schools.
Bill 7661 is being debated as a nationwide book ban, having passed the subcommittee but not yet reached the full House. At this stage, engaging with representatives is highlighted as a key step for opponents of the bill.
Additionally, Bill 8705, known as the "Charlie Act," is under consideration. It aims to cut federal funding related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and gender ideology education.
Maintaining the institute's 2026 budget and early legal challenges strengthening the agency's existence are seen as significant victories by advocates. However, the message is clear that budget battles for libraries and museums will continue in the coming period.
