Iowa Libraries at Risk: Funding Cuts Threaten Statewide Services

(Atlantic) As of fiscal year 2023, public libraries served 99% of Iowans, with 407 libraries (75%) located in communities of 2,499 or fewer residents. By fiscal year 2024, 422 public libraries had achieved accreditation.

However, the Iowa Association of Libraries warns that statewide delivery service programs are at risk of shutting down due to funding impacts following President Trump’s order to dismantle independent government agencies, including the Institute for Museum and Library Services. The State Library of Iowa relies on these services to support statewide library development initiatives, potentially affecting some of the state’s 544 libraries.

Atlantic Public Library Director Michelle Andersen emphasized that these services include the interlibrary loan system known as SILO. Courier services, which allow libraries to share materials without incurring postage costs, are funded through this federal grant. Additionally, programs such as summer reading initiatives, STEM education, the All Iowa Reads program, continuing education, and state endorsement requirements for many public libraries all depend on State Library of Iowa funding, which originates from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Despite these challenges, Andersen noted that public libraries receive local funding, which ensures they can keep their doors open.

Libraries continue to serve as valuable resources for their communities. In fiscal year 2023, Iowa libraries recorded 11.9 million visits, with over 1.8 million registered users and more than 16.8 million items circulated. Additionally, libraries hosted 107,040 programs, attracting nearly 2 million attendees, and facilitated 3 million Wi-Fi sessions.