Winds of Change: IMLS defunding a giant blow to GLAM sector
It’s hard not to talk about politics in any industry these days and while we try to remain neutral and truly “politic”, ODW shares many of the feelings on both sides of the border about the defunding of the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) in the US. It is difficult to imagine the effect of having a national institution so hastily removed from the landscape of culture, education and the communities it serves.
What does this mean for Libraries in the US? According to the FAQ on the American Library Association website, “The intent to undercut and eliminate the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is extremely shortsighted and perilous for the millions of Americans who rely on our public, school, academic, and special libraries. Library funding draws less than 0.003% of the annual federal budget yet has enormous impact in communities nationwide.”
The American Alliance of Museums is also responding with a letter from the AAM President as part their advocacy campaign, underlining the democratic nature of museums: “Museums are vital to American infrastructure, serve all people in states red and blue and communities rural to urban, receive significant support from Americans regardless of political party, and any threat to museum funding—including threats to the federal agencies that support museums—is a threat to their own communities.” Read more.
These organizations, as well as state library associations and their members, are issuing calls to action and standing up for a return to stable, socially responsible governance and support. In solidarity, we encourage everyone to back these efforts and advocate for the community and shared values of the GLAM sector on both sides of the border and internationally.
Cross-border history: Inland Seas Journal
The Inland Seas bulletin has been the cornerstone of the Great Lakes Historical Society since the organization first started in 1944. Thanks to the National Museum of the Great Lakes and their dedicated volunteers, these bulletins are now available online from 1945-2020, exploring the breadth of influence the Great Lakes have had across North America for centuries.
An essential research tool, the Inland Seas is fascinating view into the lake faring history shared by the US and Canada.
Community History Connections
First Nations peoples and their territories span the continent and have since before any national borders were established. Settler families have migrated to North America and between the US and Canada for centuries. Ships, railways, highways, planes and more continuously traverse the boundaries. From genealogical records to exhibits, these stories are entwined and ever moving and the community collections offer so many ways to explore our shared histories…
- 1812 History
- OGS Family Histories
- Ontario Scrapbook Hansard
- Empire Club of Canada
- Great Lakes History
Bring up the house lights!
The Gateway Theatre Guild is the oldest community theatre group in Northern Ontario. Established in 1948, the non-profit community theatre company in North Bay is sharing reviews, photos, programs and more. Explore the collection
Along the Canal: Welland People and Events
The Welland Public Library Genealogy Database is a researcher’s paradise, bringing more than 119,000 Birth, Death, Marriage, Adoption, Anniversary and Obituary notices and more from local newspapers, covering 1615 to current day. Explore the collection
Upcoming Events: Proudly Sponsored by ODW
| British Columbia Library Association |
| May 7-9, 2025 |
| The BCLA 2025 theme is Navigating Together, reflecting how we can navigate our current reality of rapid change and complex challenges together, better than we ever could alone. |
| Atlantic Provinces Library Association |
| June 10-12, 2025 |
| The APLA 2025 theme, Breaking Barriers aims to explore how libraries are challenging traditional boundaries, embracing innovation, and empowering individuals and communities. |
