The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s approximately 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums and related organizations. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. As part of its mission, IMLS conducts policy research, analysis, and data collection to extend and improve the nation’s museum, library, and information services. IMLS research activities are conducted in ongoing collaboration with state library administrative agencies; national, state, and regional library and museum organizations; and other relevant agencies and organizations. IMLS research activities are designed to provide consistent, reliable, complete, and accurate indicators of the status and trends in library and museum services and to report timely, useful, and high-quality data to Congress, the states, other policy-makers, practitioners, data users, and the general public. Accordingly, IMLS is responsible for providing policymakers, researchers, and the general public with information about public libraries in the United States. Public libraries have a long tradition of serving as community anchors—providing a wide array of …