Gov. Gavin Newsom sued the Trump administration Monday after a federal grant promised by millions of people who, along with California Attorney General Rob Bonta, promised a sudden shutdown of the state library program.
The grant funded the Institute of Museums and Library Services, a federal government agency supporting libraries across the country.
The Museum and Library Services Institute initially promised $15.7 million in federal funding by California State Library. At the time of the lawsuit’s publication, 21% of these funds, or $3.4 million, have yet to play state books, writes Newsom’s Office.
All of California, 1,127 public libraries receive grants from the institute each year. These funds empower “Summer literacy programs, fast broadband, disaster preparation, early learning, homework help, teen services, career resources, and collections.”
California is suing the Trump administration after a sudden end to multi-million dollar grants to state libraries.
This attack on the library is an attack on our community and we are fighting back. pic.twitter.com/xwmllih0zy
– Governor Newsom (@cagovernor) April 8, 2025
It also supports literacy programs for disabled Californians, including Braille and a talking book library for the visually impaired, visually impaired or dyslexia.
“In California, we know that libraries hold more than books. Libraries and librarians stand at the intersection of opportunity and information, offering countless programs and support to everyone in their community, from career help to free meals for children.” “Attacks on libraries are an attack on the community, and California is fighting back.”
California Governor Eleni Kunarakis has also declared that it will be “California Library Week” from April 6th to April 12th.
These dates have been discontinued in the National Library Week since 1958.
Funding cuts are just one step in the Trump administration’s efforts to permanently fold independent federal agencies, as seen as other sectors.
The Trump administration has already faced 12 lawsuits from California, including attempts to shut down the Department of Education and attempting to cut federal funding from top universities in the state.
