IMLS, LSTA Saved – for Now

February 17, 2011

This just in from Kristin Murphy, government relations specialist for the American Library Association’s Washington Office:

“Because of ALA’s unprecedented grassroots efforts this week on Amendment #35 to H.R. 1 (the Continuing Resolution to the FY2011 budget) was defeated. This victory for libraries is undoubtedly due to the strong grassroots efforts of librarians and library supporters all across the country.

“On February 14, Rep. Scott Garrett (R-N.J.) introduced an amendment that would eliminate all funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services, including funding for the Library Services and Technology Act, the primary source of federal dollars to libraries.

“Today, as the U.S. House of Representatives wraps up floor debate on HR 1, Rep. Garrett has made it clear to the Washington Office that he is no longer ‘pushing’ for a vote on his amendment [Ed. note: which, in effect, kills the amendment].  Once the House passes H.R. 1,—likely today or tomorrow—the budget will be sent over to the Senate where they will have the opportunity to make amendments and vote on this year’s budget bill.”

Murphy goes on to say: “Even though we overcame this amendment, our work is not done. H.R. 1 still has to be approved by the Senate and signed by the President” and urges library advocates to continue getting their message out. “Tell your friends, library users, and advocates that their voices will be needed on library issues in the weeks and months to come,” she said, noting that “This is only the beginning; libraries will continue to be threatened in the next Congress” and that President Obama’s FY2012 budget request “cuts funding to LSTA by $20 million as well as consolidates Improving Literacy Through School Libraries with other literacy programs in the Department of Education.”

“ALA needs you to continue your calls to Congress in our fight to protect library funding,” Murphy declared.

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