On March 31, 2025, all Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) employees were placed on administrative leave, with access to their work systems blocked. The President replaced the agency’s leadership with the Deputy Secretary of Labor. Without leadership and staff, it’s expected that library funding will be halted.
This action puts crucial services at risk across the country—and especially here in Wisconsin. Federal law requires IMLS to provide support to public libraries, but that support is currently only guaranteed through September 2025.
Why IMLS Funding Matters to the Amery Area Public Library:
IMLS funds support BadgerLink, the state of Wisconsin's online library, currently available for free to all library users.
IMLS funds help support digital literacy efforts and access to free wifi and public computers to the Amery community, a real lifeline in rural communities where internet access is spotty.
IMLS funds help pay for staff to have required continuing education trainings. This allows us to spend more of our budget on materials and services.
IMLS funds support the ILL loan program, allowing patrons to access materials unavailable in the MORE catalog.
What can library users and supporters do to help?
Advocate for the services that matter to you! Please visit https://mywisconsinlibrary.org/ to learn more!
UPDATE: Due to ongoing technical difficulties and a long waitlist, we are pausing new 3D print requests until further notice. Thank you for your patience!
Time to create! Our 3D printer is up and running and ready for public use.
What is a 3D printer?
A 3D printer uses computer software to print out 3-dimensional plastic objects layer-by-layer.
How do I use the library’s 3D printer?
1. Create a design using a program like Tinkercad OR find a design created by someone else on a website like Printables or Thingiverse.
2. Fill out the Google form by clicking the button above. A library staff member will reach out to you to schedule an appointment.
3. Attend your 3D printing appointment to have your design approved (and make minor adjustments as necessary).
4. Wait for it to print! You are free to leave the library after your appointment and will be notified when your design has successfully printed.
Read more about our 3D printer policy at amerylibrary.org/library-policies/.