Sponsors (7)
The resolution raises awareness and affirms protections for libraries, staff, and underserved communities, but it is largely symbolic and does not provide funding or legal relief for services threatened by the Executive Order eliminating IMLS.
Rural, Tribal, and other underserved communities see public congressional defense of their libraries, which can strengthen local advocacy to maintain funding and services.
Library staff (including librarians and educators) are publicly affirmed as protected from censorship and reprisals and supported in organizing, which can improve workplace safety, morale, and collective bargaining efforts.
Students and readers nationwide receive heightened recognition of libraries during National Library Week, raising awareness of access to books, internet, and educational programming.
Libraries, patrons, and communities receive only a symbolic congressional designation that does not provide funding or legally prevent the Executive Order eliminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services, leaving services and jobs at risk.
Public criticism of Executive Order 14238 may intensify political conflict over federal cultural agencies without delivering concrete remedies for displaced services or funding.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Designates April 6–12, 2025 as National Library Week and expresses support for libraries, the IMLS, protection from censorship, and library staff organizing rights.
Designates the week of April 6–12, 2025 as National Library Week and makes formal findings on the role of libraries and library staff in providing books, internet access, programming, public-health and social services support, and community assistance during crises. The resolution opposes elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, notes threats such as book bans and staff intimidation, and expresses support for protecting library workers from censorship and for their right to organize.
Introduced April 10, 2025 by Mazie Hirono · Last progress April 10, 2025