In a move to protect local libraries across the state, the Alabama Senate recently approved a provision in the FY 2026 education budget that would ensure Alabama’s library grants remain funded even if federal support is withdrawn.
The decision from the chamber follows increased speculation that federal museum and library grants may soon be terminated nationally.
On Monday, Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) Chairman John Wahl issued his full support for the provision, calling it a “major win” for local libraries and encouraged its inclusion in the final budget.
“We’ve not only taken steps to ensure that our libraries reflect the values of our communities—we’ve also made sure they’re financially secure,” said Wahl. “No matter what happens at the federal level, our libraries will continue to have the resources they need to serve the public.”
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Wahl, who has worked with state legislators on the matter for months, argued that protecting funding for Alabama libraries is essential to the state’s population, much like keeping inappropriate reading material out of the hands of underage children.
“We’ve been working hard to safeguard our children from sexually explicit books and inappropriate materials,” he said. “We want to ensure that every family in Alabama feels welcome in our libraries. Now, we’re also making sure those libraries have the funding they need to keep serving their communities. It’s about trust, accountability, and serving our communities. Real public service is supposed to look like this—listening to parents, supporting families, and delivering solutions that work.”
Should the budget with the provision pass, Wahl is confident that Alabama will become an example for other states on how to protect funding.
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“Libraries are a vital part of our communities,” he stated. “They should be safe, welcoming places for everyone, especially our children. With this funding in place, Alabama is taking the lead in showing how we can protect both values and access, without compromising either.”
The new funding provision falls under recent APLS code changes designed to make Alabama libraries welcoming places for all families.
The education budget is now awaiting approval from the state House.
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
