Expressing support for the staff of public, school, academic, and special libraries in the United States and the essential services those libraries provide to communities, recognizing the need for funding commensurate with the broad scope of social service and community supports provided by libraries, preserving the right of all citizens of the United States to freely access information and resources in their communities, supporting a strong union voice for library workers, and defending the civil rights of library staff. | ChamberLight
Bills · HRES 328
IN COMMITTEE· 119TH CONGRESS
House Res.HRES 328Arts, Culture, Religion
Expressing support for the staff of public, school, academic, and special libraries in the United States and the essential services those libraries provide to communities, recognizing the need for funding commensurate with the broad scope of social service and community supports provided by libraries, preserving the right of all citizens of the United States to freely access information and resources in their communities, supporting a strong union voice for library workers, and defending the civil rights of library staff.
INTRO APR 10· LAST ACTION APR 10
READING
6MIN
COSPONSORS
26
READER REACTIONS0 TOTAL
NO VOTES YET · BE THE FIRST
Non-binding
LEGISLATIVE PROGRESS
STEP 2 / 8
Introduced
In Committee
Reported
Passed House
Passed Senate
Conference
To President
Became Law
WHAT THE BILL DOES
AI-written
Voters should care about this bill because it reflects a significant discussion about the role and value of libraries in modern society. In an era of debates over book content, funding cuts, and challenges to free information access, this resolution serves as an official stance from the House of Representatives.
If this resolution passes, it signifies that a majority in the House officially recognizes libraries as critical infrastructure and supports their staff, potentially giving momentum to future legislative efforts or funding decisions at federal, state, and local levels. If it doesn't pass, it means this specific expression of support for libraries and their staff does not gain official House backing, potentially leaving libraries more vulnerable to current challenges without a clear signal of congressional support.
KEY PROVISIONS
4AI-extracted
PROVISION 01
The House commends the work of library staff and recognizes libraries as critical infrastructure essential to the future of the United States.
This formal recognition highlights the importance of libraries beyond their traditional roles and acknowledges the dedication of their employees.
PROVISION 02
The resolution supports prioritizing full funding for library services at federal, state, and local levels to ensure their continuation and improvement.
Increased and consistent funding is crucial for libraries to maintain and expand the diverse services they offer communities.
PROVISION 03
It reaffirms the fundamental right of people to access information and the right of library workers to organize, collectively bargain, and exercise their civil rights without threats.
This provision defends intellectual freedom and protects library staff who often face challenges related to censorship and workplace conditions.
PROVISION 04
The resolution recognizes the right of library staff to speak out on public concerns, address elected officials, and inform the public about access to information and threats to that access.
This ensures that library professionals can advocate for their institutions and the public's right to information without fear of professional repercussions.
IN COMMITTEE· 119TH CONGRESS · EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE COMMITTEE · INTRODUCED APR 10, 2025
House Res.HRES 328Arts, Culture, Religion
Expressing support for the staff of public, school, academic, and special libraries in the United States and the essential services those libraries provide to communities, recognizing the need for funding commensurate with the broad scope of social service and community supports provided by libraries, preserving the right of all citizens of the United States to freely access information and resources in their communities, supporting a strong union voice for library workers, and defending the civil rights of library staff.
Voters should care about this bill because it reflects a significant discussion about the role and value of libraries in modern society. In an era of debates over book content, funding cuts, and challenges to free information access, this resolution serves as an official stance from the House of Representatives.
If this resolution passes, it signifies that a majority in the House officially recognizes libraries as critical infrastructure and supports their staff, potentially giving momentum to future legislative efforts or funding decisions at federal, state, and local levels. If it doesn't pass, it means this specific expression of support for libraries and their staff does not gain official House backing, potentially leaving libraries more vulnerable to current challenges without a clear signal of congressional support.
KEY PROVISIONS
AI-extracted
high
The House commends the work of library staff and recognizes libraries as critical infrastructure essential to the future of the United States.
This formal recognition highlights the importance of libraries beyond their traditional roles and acknowledges the dedication of their employees.
high
The resolution supports prioritizing full funding for library services at federal, state, and local levels to ensure their continuation and improvement.
Increased and consistent funding is crucial for libraries to maintain and expand the diverse services they offer communities.
high
It reaffirms the fundamental right of people to access information and the right of library workers to organize, collectively bargain, and exercise their civil rights without threats.
This provision defends intellectual freedom and protects library staff who often face challenges related to censorship and workplace conditions.
med
The resolution recognizes the right of library staff to speak out on public concerns, address elected officials, and inform the public about access to information and threats to that access.
This ensures that library professionals can advocate for their institutions and the public's right to information without fear of professional repercussions.
GLOSSARY
AI-written
House Resolution (H. Res.)
A formal statement or measure adopted by the House of Representatives that expresses the chamber's opinion or position on an issue. It does not become law and does not require approval from the Senate or the President.
Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
A U.S. federal agency that provides grants, policy development, and research for libraries and museums nationwide. It aims to support and promote these institutions.
Collectively bargain
The process by which a group of employees, often through a union, negotiates with their employer to determine terms of employment, such as wages, hours, benefits, and working conditions.
Censorship
The practice of officially suppressing or prohibiting objectionable parts of books, films, news, or other information that are considered politically unacceptable, obscene, or a threat to security.
ACTION TIMELINE
2 EVENTS
APR 10, 25
Submitted in House
INTROREFERRAL
APR 10, 25
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.