EPISODE · Jul 29, 2025 · 24 MIN

Public libraries on the line

from Make Me Smart · host Marketplace

Along with some other federal agencies, the Trump administration has attempted to gut the Institute of Museum and Library Services. It’s a small agency, but public libraries across the country rely on its funding. The loss of federal grants isn’t the only thing these community hubs are up against. On the show today, Sam Helmick, president of the American Library Association, explains how public library funding works, the challenges presented by the shift to digital media, and what the culture wars look like on the ground at public libraries. Later, listeners share their thoughts on the new No Tax on Tips and Overtime laws. Plus, a librarian answers the Make Me Smart question.Here’s everything we talked about today:"The Trump Administration Is Threatening Libraries, Museums, and Other Nonprofits That Support the Arts, Humanities, and Learning" from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities "Libraries are cutting back on staff and services after Trump's order to dismantle small agency" from AP News"1 big thing: Libraries' e-book battle" from Axios“No Tax on Tips” Is an Industry Plant" from The New Yorker We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email [email protected].