Press Release: NJ Attorney General’s Office Joins Multistate Lawsuit to Stop the Dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)

Cuts to IMLS threaten operations of the New Jersey State Library, including critical services for patrons with disabilities.

TRENTON, NJ – April 8, 2025 – The State of New Jersey Attorney General’s office has joined with 20 other states in filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its Executive Order 14,238 (EO) dismantling the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The New Jersey State Library (NJSL) relies on these funds to provide core services to the state’s libraries and residents.

An annual allocation of approximately $4.5 million supports the provision of library services to about 13,000 people who are blind or otherwise unable to use printed books, an integrated technology infrastructure, Jersey Connect, that supports 350+ public library’s access to the internet, and a robust suite of 24 online databases for education, healthcare, news, business, and career information. The suite, JerseyClicks, was searched more than 42 million times in 2024. In addition, 20 State Library staff members are paid in part or in whole through these federal funds. Jen Nelson, State Librarian, notes that “The impact of any reduction in funding would be harmful to New Jersey residents and libraries. I am hopeful that the Attorney General’s lawsuit will be successful in restoring IMLS.”

While the Continuing Resolution includes funding for IMLS, the Trump Administration has denied the agency authorization to spend the federal funding appropriated by Congress.

A broad coalition of supporters have written letters to Congress expressing support for IMLS and its mission, including individual librarians, library users, professional associations, and major publishers. Loss of the IMLS and its programs would reverberate throughout libraries and museums across the U.S.; their staff and services are irreplaceable.

About the New Jersey State Library

The New Jersey State Library (NJSL) connects people with information and resources through its service to libraries, state government, and NJ residents, including those with special needs. NJSL provides support for public, school, academic, and special libraries, and continues to promote services for learners of all ages, including key areas of continuing need such as digital literacy, business outreach, workforce development, summer reading programs, and services for the visually and physically impaired, among others. For more information, visit www.njstatelib.org.