AAM Statement on the Placing of IMLS Staff on Administrative Leave

For Immediate Release

On March 31, the entire Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) staff was placed on administrative leave.

Placing the entire staff on administrative leave raises questions as to whether the agency will be able to fulfill its legal obligations to disperse congressionally appropriated funding, leaving museums, libraries, and communities across the country at risk of losing vital resources.

This move continues to undermine the will of the American people—96% of whom want to see federal funding for museums maintained or increased—and prevents American taxpayer dollars from reaching America’s communities.

IMLS makes up only 0.0046% of the federal budget and efficiently provides critical resources to libraries and museums in all 50 states and territories in communities rural to urban. The museum sector, in turn, generates $50 billion in economic impact. Museums are vital community anchors, serving all Americans, including youth, seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans. Museums are not only centers for education and inspiration but also economic engines—creating jobs, driving tourism, and strengthening local economies.

We are in communication with our coalition partners and other stakeholders to assess the sector’s legal options.

About the American Alliance of Museums

The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is the only organization representing the entire museum field, from art and history museums to science centers and zoos. Since 1906, we have been championing museums through advocacy and providing museum professionals with the resources, knowledge, inspiration, and connections they need to move the field forward.

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Press Contact:

Natanya Khashan

[email protected]