Mamie Bittner, Office, Public Legislative
Dr. Robert Martin, Director

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is an independent federal agency with the Executive Branch established by an act of congress in 1996. The Agency fosters leadership, innovation and a lifetime of learning by supporting museums and libraries. The Institute combines the administration of federal museum programs carried out by the institute of Museum Services and Federal library programs formerly carried out by the Department of Education.

In addition to providing distinct programs of support for museums and libraries, IMLS encourages collaboration between the community resources. The Institute’s library programs help libraries use new technologies to identify, preserve and share library and information resources across institutional, local and state boundaries and to reach those for whom library use requires effort or special materials. Museum programs strengthen museum operations, improve care of collections, increase professional development opportunities, and enhance the community service role of museums.