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Alex H. Poole, Associate Professor of Information Science, Drexel University

Trump has fired the head of the Library of Congress, but the 225-year-old institution remains a ‘library for all’ – so far

The main reading room is seen at the Library of Congress on June 13, 2025, in Washington. Kevin Carter/Getty Images

Carla Hayden, the 14th librarian of Congress, who has held the position since 2016, received an unexpected email on May 8, 2025.

“Carla, on behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as the Librarian of Congress is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service,” wrote Trent Morse, deputy director of presidential personnel at the White House.

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