Note From Debbie

March 27, 2025

Last week, I attended a think tank discussion, where this quote from JRR Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring, was shared: 

“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. 

“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

We didn’t dwell on the quote very long, but it lingered in my thoughts with a realization that even without full control on a situation, we still need to have courage and hope - to speak up, stand up and share our values - even when we are afraid.      

The federal Executive Orders to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is weighing heavy on our field.  But do not despair, there is much we can all do and when we do it together, we are stronger in our actions. 

Just think…over 70,000 emails have been received by members of congress just through ALA communications. Check out the advocacy section below for ways to continue the onslaught of communications.) I’m pretty sure that the other national service organizations that represent museums and history organizations are just as successful. The citizens of our country feel pretty strongly about our libraries, about our cultural institutions and about how our communities are stronger and vibrant because of their presence.

Our responsibility to “stay the course” and protect what we value – this is the ultimate outcome of all that has been thrust upon us in a world that feels chaotic and messy at the moment.  

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” 

You know what to do. This is our time to speak up and stand up. If we don’t, we may lose precious resources and people that matter. 

Deborah E. Mikula
MLA Executive Director