Jayapal, Hirono Introduce Resolution to Recognize Library Workers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) are introducing a resolution honoring library workers following National Library Week.

"Libraries and library staff facilitate our access to information, provide lifesaving social resources, and host critical educational programming - making communities more thriving in every community across this country," said Jayapal. "Since returning to office, Trump has sought to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, slashed funding for crucial educational programs, and threatened the jobs and livelihoods of library staff across the country. Today, I am proud to reaffirm my support for these dedicated workers and thank them for the critical work they do in every community across this country."

"America's libraries stand for everything the Trump regime is trying to dismantle-freedom of expression, unfettered access to information, celebration of identities, and support for communities. From access to books to safe spaces for people to work, play, and learn, libraries offer indispensable services and resources to our communities," said Senator Hirono. "As we celebrate National Library Week and the work of library staff across our country, it's critical that we stand up, support our libraries, and fight for the values libraries across the country are striving to defend."

Over 350,000 public servants work at an estimated 120,000 libraries across the nation. Library workers provide the public with a host of critical services, from access to books, media, and the internet, to offering high-quality educational and cultural programming geared toward visitors of all ages, including connecting visitors to social services. These services are often essential to meeting the needs of underserved communities, including low-income and unhoused individuals and families. Overall, the public highly values libraries, 69 percent of U.S. adults age 16 or older felt their local libraries substantially contributed to providing a safe place for people to spend time, and 58 percent felt they substantially contributed toward creating educational opportunities.

Unfortunately, libraries and library staff across this country are currently facing unprecedented challenges that harm their ability to provide critical resources, especially in rural, Tribal, and other underserved communities. In the wake of President Trump's executive order to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, libraries across the country have received notice of their federal grants being terminated. While Trump's executive order has been challenged in the courts, libraries and library staff have been feeling the weight of uncertainty amidst this administration's attacks on their funding and services.

"We are grateful to Representative Jayapal for highlighting the essential role that library workers play in their communities. Our patrons regularly tell us that the small, everyday experiences of connecting with libraries and library workers make an enormous difference in their lives, helping them access not just essential books, information and resources, but a sense of community that is foundational to democracy," said Tom Fay, Seattle Public Library's Chief Librarian. Thank you for celebrating the library workers who are so dedicated to making these connections happen."

The resolution is sponsored by Representatives Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Judy Chu (CA-28), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), Betty McCollum (MN-04), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-08), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Dina Titus (NV-01), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

Issues: Arts & Education