The mission of IMLS is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. We provide leadership through research, policy development, and grant making. IMLS supports key issues of national concern:

Director's Message: New Report Shows Trends in U.S. Library Service

The FY 2010 report on Public Libraries in the United States shows the vitality of public library service in America. Public libraries are anchors in their communities, serving a broad constituency with both traditional services and new ones that reflect the changing needs of their populations. Read More.

National Medal for Museum and Library Service

The National Medal honors outstanding institutions that make exceptional contributions to their communities. Read More.

Musuems, Libraries, and 21st Century Skills

The Museums, Libraries, and 21st Century Skills initiative underscores the critical role our nation’s museums and libraries play in helping citizens build such 21st century skills as information, communications and technology literacy, critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, civic literacy, and global awareness. Read more.

“Dee,” the Columbian Mammoth, towers over the Ice Age exhibit at the Tate Geological Museum at Casper College in Casper, Wyoming.

January 2013: Ancient Mammoth, Newfound Paleontological Pride

Dee, a Columbian Mammoth, was 65 to 70 when he died approximately 11,600 years ago. In 2010, Dee was reborn as the centerpiece of a major Ice Age exhibit at the Tate Geological Museum at Casper College. Read more.