Library Lovers Month: Back Maryland’s Civic Gems
Maryland Library Association Urges Residents to Support Public Libraries During February’s Library Lovers Month
February marks Library Lovers Month nationwide, spotlighting ways residents can support public libraries amid recent federal funding challenges and ongoing community value.
David Dahl, president of the Maryland Library Association, emphasized libraries’ enduring role: “Libraries are really a critical part of our civic infrastructure. We talk about libraries as being transformative to communities. If you think about it, it’s one of the few remaining places where you can go be who you are and make use of without making a purchase.”
Libraries serve as “third places”—free community gathering spots separate from home or work, similar to cafes or parks but accessible without cost. Dahl encouraged direct involvement: “If someone is in [a] position to donate financially to their library, that’s always needed. There are funding sources through the federal government and state and local funds, but there’s always more that’s needed. Then lastly, I think, asking how you can get involved and how you can support.”
Recent federal actions tested library support. In March 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order aiming to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the primary federal agency providing library grants. Legal challenges, including a lawsuit by 21 states’ attorneys general and the American Library Association, led to court injunctions halting dismantlement efforts, with a permanent block issued in late 2025. Grants were reinstated by December 2025.
Congress addressed funding in the FY2026 appropriations bills, signed by Trump earlier in February 2026. The legislation delivered a modest increase for library programs under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), raising it to $212.5 million—a $1.4 million boost—while maintaining level funding for related initiatives like school libraries. Overall IMLS saw a slight decrease tied to staffing reductions, but core library funding held firm against elimination proposals.
Maryland operates 24 public library systems, spanning single-branch to multi-location networks serving all counties, including those in Southern Maryland such as Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s. These systems deliver books, digital resources, programs, and community spaces essential for education, lifelong learning, and civic engagement.
Dahl noted libraries’ resilience relies on local action beyond federal dollars. Residents can show support by visiting branches, checking out materials, attending events, obtaining cards, thanking staff, or inquiring about volunteer, advocacy, or donation opportunities tailored to each system’s needs.
The observance aligns with broader celebrations, including proclamations in areas like St. Mary’s County, where commissioners declared February 2026 National Library Lovers’ Month on February 3 to recognize libraries’ contributions to education and connection.
Public libraries remain vital in Southern Maryland, providing free access that strengthens communities even as funding landscapes evolve. Direct outreach to local branches ensures support matches specific priorities, from collections to programs.
