As federal and local funding landscapes shift, libraries across the country—including ours—are feeling the effects. While we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished with past support, several of our programs now face uncertainty. Here’s what’s happening, what it means for the Natrona County Library, and how you can help.
How Federal Cuts Are Affecting Our Programs
We are currently in a holding pattern as we wait for more information about the potential impacts of federal funding cuts to the Department of Education, Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), and related agencies.
While the Natrona County Library has not applied directly for federal grants in recent years, we have benefited from several subgrants funded through these agencies. These grants support impactful programs that reach patrons of all ages.
Programs Already Impacted
One notable example is the Creative Aging through the Arts program, designed for patrons aged 55 and older. This initiative helps combat loneliness and isolation by fostering meaningful social connections.
On April 3, 2025, we were notified by Lifetime Arts, Inc., our grantor for this program, that their IMLS funding had been suspended and frozen. As a result, we will not be reimbursed for expenses already incurred—a direct hit to our already tight programming budget.
While we will complete the current eight-session series, we were forced to cancel the planned summer session due to this funding loss.
We’ve also received support from the Wyoming Humanities Council, which has recently experienced funding losses due to NEH claw-backs. Thanks to this partnership, we’ve offered:
- StoryWalk: An outdoor literacy activity for families promoting reading and physical activity.
- Living Room Conversations: Facilitated discussions encouraging connection and understanding.
- Women’s Mental Health Book Club: Led by a licensed counselor, exploring mental health through literature.
These kinds of programs are vital to our mission and beloved by our patrons—but they are now at risk if our grant-providing partners experience the anticipated funding cuts.
What’s at Stake Statewide
We’re also monitoring how these federal cuts may affect the Wyoming State Library. A significant portion of their IMLS funding supports the statewide Integrated Library System (ILS)—the backbone of how Wyoming libraries manage collections, track circulation, and offer materials to the public.
Should the State Library lose this funding, we anticipate a significant increase in our ILS costs.
Local Funding Concerns
In addition to federal uncertainty, we’re keeping a close eye on potential local funding reductions due to recent changes in state-level property tax assessments. These could further impact the library’s operating budget at a time when public need is growing.
Why This Matters Now
Ironically, during economic downturns, demand for library services increases. Families and individuals turn to us for free resources, internet access, job-seeking help, educational support, and community connection. But just when we’re needed most, our ability to deliver may be compromised.
How You Can Help
If the library has made a difference in your life or the lives of those around you, now is the time to speak up.
- Share your story with the Natrona County Commissioners. Let them know why the library matters and ask them to continue strong funding support.
- Can’t visit in person? You can take action online through ALA’s advocacy site.
- Donate to the Friends of the Library or the Natrona County Library Foundation. Every contribution helps.
Together, we can keep our library strong, accessible, and inspiring—for generations to come.
Thank you for supporting your library.