[Eril-l] Primary Research Group Releases New Report: Survey of Library Science Faculty, Experience of and Outlook for Research Funding

[Electronic Resources in Libraries discussion list]

New York, NY — [11/20/2025] — Primary Research Group (PRG) has released a
new study, *Survey of Library Science Faculty, Experience of and Outlook
for Research Funding*, offering one of the most detailed examinations to
date of how recent federal funding disruptions—particularly involving the
Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)—are affecting library
science faculty across the United States.

Drawing on responses from a broad national sample of faculty across
institution types, ranks, and political and demographic backgrounds, the
report uncovers modest direct impacts to date but significant concern about
the future of federal support for library science research.


Just a few of the report’s main findings:

·         The survey finds that 6.67% of respondents experienced an IMLS
grant cancellation in the past six months and 2.22% experienced a reduction
in grant scope or funding level.

·         Only 2.22% of respondents reported that a cancelled IMLS grant
had been restored through court action. Although respondents offered few
detailed examples, one wrote in a case involving a major USDA grant
restored after litigation—highlighting that reversals do happen, even if
they remain uncommon within IMLS.

·         51.11% say most or all IMLS cancellations are likely to endure.

·         Over the next five years, 53.33% expect federal funding for
library science research to be lower than at the end of 2024.

·         Many respondents reported proactively reducing their reliance on
IMLS and repositioning their research portfolios accordingly.


About the Report


The report presents extensive data tables, analysis by institutional
characteristics and faculty demographics, and a rich review of open-ended
commentary that illuminates how library science faculty are navigating the
changing funding landscape. It includes detailed breakouts by:

   - Institutional ranking
   - Carnegie classification
   - Enrollment size
   - Academic rank
   - Gender, age, political views
   - Public vs. private sector
   - Teaching load


The report offers a nuanced portrait of both the current impacts of federal
funding instability and the shifting strategies library science researchers
are deploying in response.


About Primary Research Group


Primary Research Group is a leading publisher of research studies and
benchmarking data for libraries, higher education, law schools, and
professional organizations worldwide. PRG provides data-driven insights
that help institutions understand emerging trends, assess competitive
positions, and plan effectively for the future.


Media Contact


Primary Research Group
Website: www.PrimaryResearch.com <http://www.primaryresearch.com/>
Email: jmoses at primaryresearch.com
Phone: 212-736-2316
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