We work to keep in touch with our members of Congress about issues important to libraries. Our Indiana members of Congress serve on key committees. For example,  Rep. Visclosky (CD1) serves on the House Appropriations Committee, the committee that voted last Thursday to continue federal funding for Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) . Your ILF advocated for his continued support of library funding. The appropriations bill is expected for a vote in the House in August. 

In her role on House Energy and Commerce's Subcommittee on Technology, Rep. Brooks (5th CD) recently heard testimony about ways to expand broadband access in rural areas. Your ILF provided her information about the needs in communities and how libraries often work to meet that need. 

The Legislative Council of the Indiana General Assembly assigned topics to Interim Study Committees that will begin meeting in August. 

Interim Study Committees will include topics such as ESSA, TIF and rural broadband, which your ILF Legislative Committee, Staff and Advocates will monitor. Top issues will likely include permitless carry of firearms and alcohol sales.

Whether a school library, public library or academic library, your library plays a critical role in advancing the education and workforce development outcomes for the state.

Your Indiana Library Federation is in active conversations with key stakeholders, including meetings with Governor Holcomb and his staff and the IN Department of Workforce Development. Public libraries are asked to complete this survey .

The Indiana Department of Education accepted comments on the draft plan for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) through July 20. The Indiana State Board of Education reviewed the draft plan on July 12. Scroll down on the link above to review the presentation slides and materials.

Your Indiana Library Federation, our members, and many partners submitted comments about the important role that school libraries play in achieving goals within the plan. School libraries are critical to English and math proficiency, school improvement plans, cost effective professional development for teachers and support for ALL students, including English language learners, students with disabilities, high-ability students and disadvantaged students.  

The Department of Education will update and submit the final plan to the federal government in September. Additionally, the Interim Study Committe on Education of the Indiana General Assembly will study ESSA later this summer and fall. 

ILF members have access to special "members only" information through our contracted legislative advocates at Bose Public Affairs. See the July Update from Bose. Learn about Sen. Kenley's retirement, his replacement, the state's fiscal closeout and study committees.

Ar chived Bose Reports are at bottom of linked page. If you do not see them, perhaps you need to sign in or renew your membership.

Matt Long, Vice President of Bose Public Affairs, is pictured at right.