Many Mississippi libraries, including the Hattiesburg Public Library, have implemented changes due to cuts in federal funding and grants.
An executive order issued on March 14 allowed the Department of Government Efficiency to begin reducing existing grants to the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The cuts have affected several areas in libraries, including digital services and free public offerings.
In Hattiesburg, one change will go into effect starting Nov. 3 that limits printing options. Library staff member Kelly Eubanks said the new policy is different from when she first started working there.
“When I first started working here, we were able to offer any person who was printing off homework 20 free pages, and 4 of which could be in color,” Eubanks said.
On the desk in the computer lab, a printed sign reads, “Due to a reduction in the grant we receive, the library will no longer provide free homework printing for adults starting November 3.”
“We are still able to offer children K through 12 homework prints,” Eubanks explained.
The Hattiesburg, Petal and Forrest County libraries have also had to change parts of their digital services due to the loss of grants. Hoopla, an online book-lending app that allows patrons to access digital reading options, has reduced the number of books users can check out from eight to four per month.
Other libraries across the state have had to discontinue Hoopla altogether due to funding losses. The Hattiesburg, Petal and Forrest County Library expressed gratitude for community support that has allowed them to continue offering the service.
A Facebook post from the library’s account said, “This support allows us to continue offering digital media through Hoopla while other libraries across the state are suspending this service.”
Right now, the main impact on the libraries is Hoopla, but the future for salaries, employee benefits, new computers and exhibits remains uncertain. The frozen funds total about $200,000 per year for the library.
If the grants are not restored, the library will need additional local funding to maintain current service levels.
The future of the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services is uncertain, and many libraries continue to face the effects of funding and grant cuts. The Hattiesburg Public Library urges the community to voice support and concerns to elected officials in hopes that the grants and funds can be restored.
For more information about the Hattiesburg Public Library, visit hattlibrary.org.
