NM Delegation Announces Funding for Native Libraries

Statement

U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.), ranking member on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Deb Haaland (D-N.M.) and Xochitl Torres Small (D-N.M.) announced that the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is awarding grants to New Mexico Pueblos to expand and create new library services. The funds awarded will be used to organize and preserve the historical records of Native communities in New Mexico.

"Tribal histories are rich in culture and tradition and in New Mexico we celebrate the role they play in shaping our state's and nation's identity," Udall, ranking member on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, said. "Native Americans have influenced and continue to influence our national customs, culture, art, history, communities and our relationship with the land. It is imperative that we preserve and showcase the historical records of Tribal communities so that future generations can continue to learn about the history of our communities."

"Tribal libraries are gathering places for their communities, where children and families go to read stories and learn about their history. I'm proud to welcome this funding to help New Mexico's Pueblo's archive their documents and records for future generations. Preserving these important historical documents is an essential act of cultural preservation," said Heinrich.

"Tribal libraries in New Mexico offer a unique perspective that is crucial to the diversity of knowledge and preservation of Native American language and history. Libraries are education hubs for communities -- especially students -- and these investments will bolster education opportunities and improve the ability to access and exchange knowledge. I'm thrilled to see our tribal libraries get the resources they need to open doors -- and open eyes -- into Native American history," Luján said.

"Every community deserves quality libraries that empower and serve the needs of their residents, but many times library services don't meet the specific record-keeping needs of our Pueblo communities. These grants provide the resources Pueblos need to capture and archive our cultural history and traditions," said Haaland.

"Tribal communities have enhanced and helped create the rich history that makes up the story of New Mexico. From influencing our culture, cuisine, and customs, the continuing influence of Native American communities can be felt statewide and should be celebrated for their continuing contributions. We must continue to support efforts that preserve the role Native Americans play in our shared future and ensure that lessons from the past are preserved for generations to come," Torres Small said.