Libraries are not free—but they're priceless
We often think of libraries as “free” spaces. Free books. Free programs. Free access to technology. But here’s the truth—libraries are not free. Behind every book, program, and librarian, there’s a complex network of funding sources that keeps these vital institutions running. Year after year, libraries must secure the resources they need to serve their communities.
Who Pays for Libraries?
Libraries rely on a mix of funding sources, each playing a critical role in sustaining their services. While local taxes fund core operations, state and federal support help libraries innovate and expand access. Here’s how it all comes together:
Local Funding: The Backbone of Libraries
The majority of library funding comes from local sources, including:
- Property Taxes: The primary funding stream for public libraries in most communities, covering staff salaries, facility maintenance, and programming.
- Local Government Budgets: Cities and counties allocate funding for library operations, but these budgets fluctuate based on economic conditions and political priorities.
Why it matters: Local funding keeps libraries open, but it often isn’t enough to meet growing community needs. That’s where state and federal support come in.
State Funding: Expanding Access and Resources
State governments provide additional support, though funding levels vary widely. State funding typically includes:
- State Grants: Allocated based on population, library usage, or specific needs like literacy programs or technology upgrades.
- Library Systems Support: Many states fund regional library systems that provide interlibrary loans, staff training, and digital access services.
- Special Programs: Some states invest in initiatives like summer reading programs, workforce development, and early childhood literacy.
Why it matters: State funding helps libraries provide essential services beyond books—like job training, digital literacy, and early education support.
Federal Funding: Innovation and Equity
At the national level, funding for libraries primarily comes from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which administers the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) that provides funds to support workforce development, digital access, STEM programs, and innovation in over 120,000 libraries nationwide. Specifically, LSTA helps:
- Prepare students for the job market with coding and STEM activities.
- Support entrepreneurs with business development resources.
- Link libraries electronically, ensuring access to vast information networks.
Funding also comes from the U.S. Department of Education through Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) Grants, which support school libraries and literacy initiatives for children in underserved communities.
Key to supporting rural and low-income areas is the E-Rate program. Administered through the Universal Service Fund that’s managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the E-Rate program provides libraries with the greatest need with discounted broadband and telecommunications services. Libraries around the country rely on E-Rate subsidies for their broadband connectivity, and the communities they serve rely on this vital connection as well. The program has been a quiet powerhouse for libraries and schools for nearly 30 years.
Why it matters: While federal funding is a smaller piece of the puzzle, it plays a crucial role in ensuring that libraries remain modern, accessible, and equitable for all.
FOR OUR LIBRARIES
Libraries need your support. Despite their importance, libraries face funding cuts at the local and state level, threats to intellectual freedom from book bans and censorship, and rising costs for digital resources, staff, and programming. The American Library Association is the leading advocate for libraries, fighting for funding, intellectual freedom, and equitable access to knowledge. ALA works in Washington, D.C., and across the country to protect libraries from political and economic threats. When you become a supporter of the ALA, you help fund our efforts to advocate for library funding, enhance the skills of library workers, and improve our communities.
