Dr. Diane Golzynski, Deputy Superintendent for Business, Health, and Library Services | Michigan Department of Education
Potential federal funding cuts could restrict access to library resources for Michigan residents, according to state and local officials. During a recent State Board of Education meeting, discussions centered on the impact of these cuts on two key Library of Michigan programs.
The Michigan eLibrary (MeL) offers access to subscription magazines, newspapers, reference books, eBooks, and more. In 2024, it facilitated access to 19.2 million articles and journals. The MeL Catalog (MeLCat) provides physical books and other items from 435 libraries across the state, with one million items loaned in 2024.
Both programs are at risk following a March 2025 executive order from the Trump Administration aiming to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services. This agency is the sole federal funder for libraries in Michigan, providing about $4.8 million annually since the late 1990s.
Randy Riley, state librarian representing the Library of Michigan, expressed concerns about maintaining these programs long-term due to potential funding loss. "It’s a big risk that (MeL and MeLCat) will disappear or be significantly altered," Riley said.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel recently secured preliminary injunctions against actions by the Trump Administration intended to dismantle essential federal programs. Nessel joined other attorneys general in suing over attempts to eliminate key agencies including the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Presenters at the meeting included Riley; Dr. Diane Golzynski from the Michigan Department of Education; Glenn Fischer from DeWitt District Library; and Larry Neal from Clinton-Macomb Public Library. Fischer highlighted that libraries are vital community hubs: "We are probably the busiest building in the city."
Neal noted that his library manages 1.6 million transactions annually and serves about 30,000 students. A survey indicated that 74% of respondents viewed library programs as a good use of tax dollars.
State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice emphasized the importance of libraries: “Libraries are a gateway to the world for many of our children and their families."
For more information on Michigan eLibrary programs, visit the Library of Michigan website.
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