Library Advocates’ August 2025 Congressional Recess Engagement Guide

For libraries, schools, archives, and museums advocates, the August Congressional Recess is a time to connect, inform, and influence Congress about key issues.

We are encouraging library advocates and activists to take a big step this August and connect with their congressional delegation at home about the big issues affecting our institutions and communities. This is a time for us to take our digital petitions and online calls to action into the real world and advocate for institutions such as the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the National Archives (NARA), and the Library of Congress.

Download this guide to learn how to advocate for your library this August during legislative recess.

This guide is for anyone who cares about the future of libraries, funding, and the right to read. Whether you are new to advocacy or a seasoned organizer, this guide will help you make the most of this annual opportunity to engage with your Members of Congress face-to-face in your community and with your own voice.

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This practical, easy-to-use guide covers:

• How to find your Member’s recess events and request a local meeting
• How to share your story and speak up at a town hall or picnic
• What materials to bring and how to follow up for impact
• Five key federal policy priorities for FY2026:
  • Funding for IMLS and its Grants to States program.
  • Protection of the National Archives from politicization.
  • Defense of the Library of Congress’s mission and independence.
  • Oversight of DoDEA censorship and curriculum rollbacks.
  • A strong stand for the civil rights of readers and against book bans.

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EveryLibrary is here to help you make the most of this unique moment.

Congress needs to hear directly from librarians, educators, parents, students, trustees, and supporters.

Please, download the guide today.