AL Legislature Could Protect Local Libraries from Federal Funding Cuts
Provision in education budget to give 1:1 replacement monies has passed Senate, awaits House action
In a move to shield Alabama's public libraries from potential federal funding cuts, the Alabama Senate has approved a provision in the fiscal year 2026 education budget that would provide a dollar-for-dollar replacement of any withdrawn federal funds. This initiative, championed by Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) Chairman John Wahl, aims to ensure the financial stability of local libraries amidst uncertainties at the federal level.
Under the proposed measure, Alabama would become the first state to implement such a funding safeguard, ensuring that local libraries remain operational and community-focused, regardless of federal policy changes. The education budget, including this provision, has passed the State Senate with bipartisan support and is awaiting approval from the State House.
"This is a major win for Alabama families and our local libraries," said Chairman Wahl. "We've not only taken steps to ensure that our libraries reflect the values of our communities—we've also made sure they're financially secure. No matter what happens at the federal level, our libraries will continue to have the resources they need to serve the public.”
The provision comes in response to recent developments at the national level, including an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in March 2025, which seeks to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a key source of federal funding for state libraries. The potential loss of these funds has raised concerns about the impact on library services, particularly in rural areas.
This action aligns with the APLS Board's recent efforts to reinforce public trust in the state's library system. Under Chairman Wahl's leadership, the board has advocated for policies aimed at protecting children from exposure to sexually explicit content and empowering parents to decide what materials their children can access. The funding provision is part of broader APLS code changes designed to make Alabama libraries welcoming places for all families.
"We've been working hard to safeguard our children from sexually explicit books and inappropriate materials. We want to ensure that every family in Alabama feels welcome in our libraries," Wahl said. "Now, we're also making sure those libraries have the funding they need to keep serving their communities. This is about more than books—it's about trust, accountability, and serving our communities. Real public service is supposed to look like this—listening to parents, supporting families, and delivering solutions that work.”
If approved by the State House, the funding safeguard will provide Alabama libraries with a stable financial foundation, enabling them to continue offering essential services to the public, regardless of federal funding decisions.
For more information on APLS, visit their website.
