Protect the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress (LOC), established in 1800 by an Act of Congress to provide “books as may be necessary for the use of congress,” is the largest library in the world with over 173 million items and employing over 3,000 staff. The LOC acts as the research arm of the legislative branch, providing lawmakers with confidential, apolitical information — including legal advice — to help them make informed policy decisions. While the President has the power to appoint the Librarian of the LOC when there is a vacancy, the LOC squarely resides under congressional authority and is considered part of the legislative branch of government. The position of Librarian also requires Senate confirmation.

On May 8th, Trump abruptly fired the 14th Librarian of the LOC, Carla Hayden, from her role for “the pursuit of DEI and putting inappropriate books in the library for children.” Trump then immediately appointed Todd Blache - his personal attorney from his hush money trial and current Deputy Attorney General - as acting Librarian.

In a rare rebuke of Trump, even Congressional Republicans are pushing back at this legislative branch power grab, claiming that they want to maintain their power of the library. Currently, the top career official at the LOC, Robert Newlen, has taken control of the LOC, but a standoff with the Trump Administration is brewing. Demand your representatives reject Blanche’s appointment and enforce their independent control over the LOC as a legislative branch agency. Trump’s continued brazen attempts to take total control over all aspects of our government must be stopped.