American Library Association Files Lawsuit Against DOGE Over IMLS Dismantling
April 12, 2025 – Washington, D.C. — The American Library Association (ALA), in partnership with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), has filed a high-profile federal lawsuit against the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the administration of former President Donald Trump. The lawsuit stems from the controversial dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a critical agency responsible for supporting libraries and museums across the United States.
What Is the IMLS?
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is an independent federal agency established in 1996. It provides crucial funding, grants, and resources to libraries, museums, archives, and research institutions nationwide. The IMLS helps maintain public access to educational resources, literacy programs, technology upgrades, and more.
With the elimination of the IMLS, libraries are at risk of losing millions in annual support. This could lead to reduced services, layoffs, and even closures — especially in rural and underserved areas.
The Core of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, alleges that the Trump administration acted unlawfully by dismantling the IMLS through executive action, without Congressional approval or proper legal procedure.
According to the complaint:
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IMLS staff were terminated without cause.
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Ongoing grant programs were abruptly canceled.
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Operations and funding mechanisms were shut down without a public review process.
The ALA and AFSCME argue that these actions violate several federal statutes, including:
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The Administrative Procedure Act – which governs how federal agencies operate and make decisions.
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Article I of the U.S. Constitution – which gives Congress the power to create and dissolve federal agencies.
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Article II – which outlines the powers and responsibilities of the executive branch.
ALA President Speaks Out
ALA President Cindy Hohl issued a powerful statement following the lawsuit’s announcement:
“Libraries are the cornerstone of democracy. They offer free access to information, preserve our cultural heritage, and promote lifelong learning. The dismantling of IMLS threatens these values. We are fighting not only for library workers but for every community that depends on these public services.”
Hohl emphasized that the suit is not just about funding but about preserving a vital national infrastructure that has served Americans for decades.
The Role of DOGE
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was created under the Trump administration as part of a broader initiative to reduce federal spending and eliminate what it called “redundant or ineffective agencies.” In recent months, DOGE announced the termination of several government entities, including the IMLS, as part of its “streamlining” effort.
Critics argue that DOGE has overstepped its authority and has been used to bypass traditional checks and balances. By removing an agency like IMLS without Congressional approval, the administration may have set a dangerous precedent.
What’s at Stake?
Eliminating IMLS could have a devastating ripple effect:
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Smaller libraries may close, especially those in rural or low-income communities that rely heavily on federal grants.
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Museum programming for students and families could vanish without funding support.
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Library staff layoffs could impact thousands of public employees nationwide.
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Community-based educational programs — such as after-school tutoring, job search assistance, and literacy classes — may be discontinued.
This lawsuit is seen by many as a critical battle not just for library funding, but for the future of public education and community learning.
Legal and Constitutional Arguments
The plaintiffs are arguing that:
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The Executive Branch does not have unilateral authority to eliminate a congressionally authorized agency.
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The lack of due process in terminating IMLS violates administrative law.
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The abrupt shutdown of grant programs harms public interest without legal justification.
Legal experts are closely watching the case, as it could redefine how far an administration can go in restructuring the federal government.
Broader Implications
This case goes far beyond libraries. If the courts side with the Trump administration, it could open the door for future presidents to eliminate federal programs or agencies without legislative approval. That’s why many educators, historians, and civil rights organizations have come out in support of the ALA’s legal action.
The case also highlights growing tensions over the role of federal government in supporting public institutions. While some argue that local governments should fund their own libraries and museums, others believe that federal support ensures equal access for all Americans, regardless of ZIP code or income level.
Public and Political Reactions
The public reaction has been swift and polarized.
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Library professionals and unions have largely rallied behind the ALA.
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Some conservatives, however, argue that DOGE is simply doing its job by cutting waste and trimming bureaucracy.
Meanwhile, online campaigns like #SaveIMLS and #StandWithLibraries have gained traction on social media, urging Congress to step in and restore funding to affected institutions.
Several lawmakers, particularly from states with extensive rural library systems, have issued statements of concern and pledged to hold oversight hearings.
What Happens Next?
The court will soon hear preliminary motions. The ALA is seeking:
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A temporary injunction to halt the dismantling of IMLS.
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Reinstatement of terminated staff and paused grant programs.
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A permanent order declaring the shutdown illegal.
Legal experts predict that the case could set a major precedent for federal agency governance. A ruling in favor of the ALA would not only restore the IMLS but could curb executive power in reshaping the federal bureaucracy.
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