Dear Holliston Community Members,
Many of us hold early childhood memories that play against the backdrop of a public library. Whether we grew up playing in the Gilman Room or adopted HPL after settling in Holliston later in life, many Hollistonians see our home library as a cornerstone of the community.
As stewards and champions of the Holliston Public Library, its Board of Trustees is no exception. It is in that capacity that we felt the need to reach out to ensure our neighbors are aware of recent challenges facing our beloved institution.
The White House’s Executive Order 14238, issued in March 2025, targeted several federal agencies, including the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Through the IMLS, local libraries receive grants and funding to support their collections, programs, and organizations.
Massachusetts was allocated $3.6 million in federal funds through the IMLS’ Grants to States Program to support statewide services as well as grants to local libraries. Due to the loss of that federal funding, the Massachusetts Libraries Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) has had to suspend some programs and seek alternate funding to ensure critical programs remain available.
We are asking you to join ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of Executive Order 14238. Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Apply for a library card if you don’t already have one and renew your account if it’s been inactive.
- Join the Friends of the Holliston Public Library to ensure we can continue to offer programming and services in these uncertain times.
- Contact your elected representatives to express your concern for the loss of federal funding to local libraries.
- Sign the ALA’s petition, Show Up For Our Libraries
- Consider donating to support the ALA’s efforts.
- Spread the word about this issue to friends, family, and colleagues as well as on social media. The ALA communication toolkit can help with this.
Here in Massachusetts, we have a rich history of pursuing and preserving democratic ideals. Less than 10 miles away, the Franklin Public Library became the first public library, continually serving our nation since 1790. Since that time, Massachusetts’ public libraries have grown to provide services ranging far beyond access to physical materials. Libraries like HPL are one of the few remaining places where the general public can access myriad services, regardless of their ability to pay. We hope you will consider joining us in helping protect this important community service.
Yours faithfully,
Holliston Library Board of Trustees
