President Trump’s recent executive order poses a threat to the Vermont Historical Society’s significant COVID-19 project, putting libraries and museums at risk. The project, a three-year oral history initiative capturing the pandemic’s impact in Vermont, is on the brink of completion. A resulting book, “Life Became Very Blurry: An Oral History of COVID-19 in Vermont,” is set to hit bookstores on March 25, followed by a podcast of the same name three days later.
Funded by a $137,000 grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services, part of the $250,000 project cost, the society has not received the final $30,000 installment. This comes amid President Trump’s announcement to dismantle seven agencies, including the one supporting this vital project. Normally, the nonprofit would have more time to request the final payment, but with looming uncertainties, staff members are racing to secure it this week.
The Vermont Department of Libraries received $1.2 million from the IMLS in 2024 through the Grants to States program, providing crucial funding for library services statewide. This financial support, which makes up a third of the department’s annual budget, facilitates essential resources such as interlibrary loans, databases, ebooks, audiobooks, and workforce development programs.
The executive order’s implications remain uncertain, leaving State Librarian and Commissioner of Libraries Catherine Delneo concerned about the future of these crucial services. The order aims to eliminate several federal agencies deemed unnecessary by the President, including the IMLS. However, recent court rulings have challenged similar attempts to downsize government agencies, highlighting the ongoing uncertainties faced by organizations nationwide.
Amanda Kay Gustin, project director at the Vermont Historical Society, emphasized the importance of capturing timely historical narratives through projects like the COVID-19 initiative. These personal accounts provide invaluable insights and emotional details that fade over time, offering essential lessons and understanding. However, without federal funding, the society faces a significant budget gap, raising concerns about the project’s future.
The society’s ambition to create a digital platform for accessing historical material from museums and historical societies across Vermont is now in jeopardy. Despite these challenges, executive director Stephen Perkins and president Jan Albers have expressed gratitude for the community’s support and emphasized the critical role libraries play in preserving history and serving as vital community hubs.
In addition to the Vermont Historical Society, six other agencies, including the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, are affected by the recent executive order. The uncertainties surrounding these changes underscore the broader impact on cultural and social services in Vermont and beyond.
As organizations navigate these challenges, the future of essential historical projects and library services hangs in the balance. The resilience and dedication of these institutions, coupled with community support, will be crucial in preserving Vermont’s rich history and cultural heritage.
