To the editor: 

The elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) would significantly affect the Barrington Public Library’s programs and services to several communities in Rhode Island.

• Loss of federal funding — In 2024, the Barrington Public Library received a $25,000 Library of Rhode Island (LORI) Project Grant for digitizing the Barrington Times newspaper, covering issues from 1958 to 1989. This project made local historical resources more accessible for the East Bay communities and beyond. The LORI Grants are funded through the federal IMLS Grants to States program under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). Without IMLS, such grants would be unavailable for similar projects. Our library’s Summer Reading program is also funded through LSTA.

• Impact on state aid — The Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) in Rhode Island receives partial funding from IMLS. For Fiscal Year 2025, the Barrington Public Library was allocated $374,471 in state aid, which includes contributions from IMLS. The elimination of IMLS would reduce the funds available to OLIS, thereby decreasing the state aid distributed to libraries like Barrington’s.

• Effect on community programs and services — IMLS funding supports various library services, including digital content access through AskRI, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives. The Barrington Public Library offers resources such as e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines through platforms like eZone/Libby, Hoopla, and Flipster. Core services, including Talking Books (audiobooks for the blind), special project grants to libraries, and interlibrary loans (book delivery), would also be reduced.

• Increased pressure on local funding — The loss of IMLS support would require the library to rely much more heavily on local funding sources. The Barrington Public Library Foundation currently raises private funds to cover the cost of library enhancements and capital projects. Additionally, the Friends of the Barrington Public Library supports over 88 percent of library programs through memberships and book sales. However, these local efforts will not offset the loss of federal support, leading to reduced programs and services.

In summary, the elimination of IMLS grants would pose significant challenges for the Barrington Public Library and severely reduce its ability to serve the community.

• What steps can we take — Keep abreast of local and national developments regarding library funding. Share information within your networks to build broader community support. Awareness is key to mobilizing collective action in favor of the library.

By taking these actions, community members can help ensure that the Barrington Public Library continues to serve as a valuable resource for education, information, and community engagement.

Charles Van Sluyter

Barrington

Charles Van Sluyter is president of the Friends of the Barrington Public Library.