Local libraries hit with federal budget cuts
GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV) – Public libraries provide free access to both physical and digital resources, allowing patrons to enjoy literature and media.
However, an executive order issued last week by the Trump administration calls for the reduction of seven federal agencies, including the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which provides funding to the Mississippi Library Commission.
This decision is impacting many libraries along the Coast, leading several to suspend their digital services. After speaking with various local libraries, Jackson-George Regional Library System has expressed that the communication from the government was very minimal yet instant at the same time, leaving them in a state of uncertainty about the future.
One of the most popular digital platforms being suspended, and widely used by libraries, is Hoopla, a digital media service offered to library patrons that provides access to a wide range of content, including movies, TV shows, music, eBooks, audiobooks, comics, and graphic novels. It allows users to stream or download content for free with a valid library card.
Over in Harrison County, the library system is supported by the county’s supervisors, who have allocated separate funds that will remain untouched. As a result, their services are able to continue for a little while longer, but as those funds dwindle, their future is uncertain.
Hancock County released a statement to WXXV, expressing their thoughts and concerns for their patrons. “The sudden pause in federal funding from IMLS has put local libraries, including ours, in a tough position. Hoopla is one of the few platforms that gives our patrons instant access to a wide range of digital content. Losing access, even temporarily, would directly impact many of our users, especially in a rural community like ours where digital access is often a lifeline. Right now, we’re doing everything we can to keep the service running without interruption, but that may require us to shift funds from other already-lean areas of our budget.” – John D. Brdecka, Executive Director, Hancock County Library System.
As libraries across the coast face uncertainty due to budget cuts and service suspensions, many patrons are left without certain digital resources they once relied on, like Hoopla. Many residents who are concerned about the budget cuts are voicing their frustrations to their local representatives for answers.
