As a concerned advocate for libraries and education, federal funding is tremendously important for the services we provide our communities every day. We applaud the increase included in the FY25 Senate LHHS Appropriations Committee funding bill yet remain troubled by the proposed cuts to library funding in the FY25 House LHHS Appropriations Committee funding bill. The House bill calls for slashing funding by 10% for the Library Services and Technology Act which is simply unacceptable. Our librarians are already grappling with rising demand for essential services while managing increasing costs. Libraries play a crucial role in our communities, serving diverse patrons such as veterans seeking support in their transition to civilian life, students engaged in educational programs, job seekers striving to improve their skills, and small businesses in need of essential resources. Cutting library funding would have severe repercussions on the individuals and businesses that depend on these vital services. I urge Congress to prioritize the Senate’s proposed $214 million in funding for the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and uphold the $30 million allocated for Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) for school libraries. Investing in libraries and education yields significant returns in terms of student success, economic growth, and a skilled workforce prepared to compete globally. Let us stand together to oppose these detrimental cuts to library funding in FY25. Our communities and future generations depend on the valuable resources and support provided by our libraries.