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Despite declining crime rates, the United States continues to incarcerate more people per capita than any other democracy, with nearly 2 million individuals held in prisons, local jails, and detention centers.

Homeschooling in the U.S. has risen significantly in recent years. According to a survey by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), almost 5.2% of 5-17 year-olds received home instruction during the 2022-2023 school year, up from the 3.7% reported during the 2018-2019 school year.

In the 21st century, internet access is inextricably linked to work, school, and a majority of our social lives. Yet, there is still a large swath of the country, both rural and urban, that lacks access. 

Located across the country, veterans and military families are putting down roots and engaging with local communities. While they make up a significant part of the populace, many civilians report having little understanding of military service despite appreciating them, and likely interacting with them.

Libraries and museums serve as guardians of society's most precious treasures and as hubs of knowledge, culture, and technology. When these institutions experience disaster, natural or otherwise, this can result in catastrophic loss. Hurricanes, HVAC malfunctions, and hungry pest infestations, all pose a risk to collections. 

The Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is the most recent target of the extreme federal budgetary reductions led by President Trump, named among six other agencies in a March 14th  executive order.

We know that Trump's previous administration proposed cutting all federal library funding every year he was in office.

We know he and Elon Musk will try to cut it again through the DOGE Presidential Advisory Committee in the coming months.

But what does federal funding pay for, and why does it matter?

You might be surprised.

Help yourself and others find trustworthy health information.

Improve your money management skills with free online financial literacy resources.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services' free online courses teach you how to spot fake news and find reliable information sources.