91´«Ã½

WASHINGTON - Today the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today measures to award the first $30 million of $50 million appropriated to the agency in the CARES Act. The 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) issued the following statement by 91´«Ã½ President Wanda Brown:

"The 91´«Ã½ is excited that the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is delivering CARES Act funding to libraries so swiftly. These funds, which focus on digital inclusion, will boost libraries’ continued efforts to prepare for and respond to a vast array of community needs as a result of the coronavirus – especially for those who rely on libraries for an internet connection to access unemployment benefits, distance learning, and other critical areas of relief.

"Libraries demonstrate their value to decision makers year-round, but rarely do we witness such a rapid response to 91´«Ã½ advocacy—it is no doubt a reflection of the volatility of the moment we are in now, and the stability libraries offer before, during, and after. We offer thanks to Congress for recognizing that America’s libraries are a rock for their communities in this time of uncertainty and change."