Strategic Plan FY 2022–2026

Frames how the agency envisions meeting the essential information, education, research, economic, cultural, and civic needs of the American public. The plan identifies the mission of IMLS to advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development.

With this strategic plan, IMLS has a roadmap for priorities and investment for the next five years. The new plan outlines four strategic goals that will underpin the agency’s programs and services:

  1. Champion Lifelong Learning: Museums, libraries, and archives are unparalleled sources of educational, information, health, job, and cultural resources. IMLS supports these institutions’ work to open themselves up to all community members and visitors, bridging the gaps of distance, resources, or experience.

  2. Strengthen Community Engagement: Museums, libraries, and archives can connect community members to develop or enhance a collective sense of place where everyone can feel respected and included. IMLS enables these institutions and their partners to foster dialogue that addresses and incorporates diverse community needs and experiences.

  3. Advance Collections Stewardship and Access: Museums and libraries are responsible for preserving, managing, and providing the broadest possible access to the cultural, artistic, historical, natural, and scientific collections entrusted to their care.

  4. Demonstrate Excellence in Public Service: IMLS recognizes the importance of reflective practice and continual improvement in our commitment to the agency’s mission to advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations.

Strategic Plan cover

IMLS Strategic Plan, 2022-2026. The brochure provides an overview of the agency's mission, vision, goals, and objectives, and includes highlights of IMLS initiatives and projects.