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White Paper: Libraries as Spaces for Innovation and Productivity

ULC’s newest White Paper explores the importance of libraries as places of congregation in a post-pandemic world and offers recommendations of ways the value of libraries as spaces for innovation and productivity can be emphasized.

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Public Libraries as Critical Spaces for Convening

Hear from ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater about the importance of libraries as physical convening spaces. Through creative development of these spaces, libraries can contribute to the wellness, civic engagement, and productivity of their communities.

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ULC Annual Member Business Meeting

All ULC members are invited to the ULC Annual Member Business Meeting on Thursday, June 15 at 4 pm ET! During this meeting, members will vote on the proposed 2023-2024 ULC Executive Board Slate and proposed revisions to the ULC bylaws.

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The Power of Libraries Addressing Inequities in STEM

By providing access to technology and providing STEM-based Summer Learning programs, libraries have the power to make a difference in the education and career path a child dreams about.

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2023 Innovations Initiative

The honorees for the 2023 Innovations Initiative have been named! The panel of judges selected a Top Innovator and Honorable Mention from each category. See the list of winners now!

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Libraries Serve Youth at Risk of Incarceration

With the support of the Walmart.org Center for Racial Equity, ULC is working to build a body of research on how libraries are working with African American youth. This initiative is called Creating Youth Opportunities.

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Libraries Are Inspiring Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs

Hear from ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater about the underrepresented value of libraries as entrepreneurial hubs. Libraries are supporting the development of their patrons through one-on-one support, skill-building programs, premier public space and more.

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Declaration of Democracy

ULC member libraries and supporting organizations are working to build policies and actions that preserve and protect democracy in our communities.

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Cornerstones in a Culture War

ULC continues to stand with and for North America's public libraries to fight for free information and access for all through initiatives like our Declaration of Democracy and the new Democracy Advocacy Group.

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"Food is a Right: Libraries and Food Justice"

ULC's latest white paper, “Food is a Right: Libraries and Food Justice,” addresses the current state of food insecurity across North America and the strategic role libraries play in addressing local needs.

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Statement on Summer Learning

Summertime reveals significant inequities for many and the time to act is now. ULC joins the National Summer Learning Association in issuing a call to action on summer equity.

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For 50 years, the Urban Libraries Council has served as an outcomes-driven research and innovations network of more than 170 leading North American public libraries.

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Impact Stories

Discover how ULC member libraries invigorate and inspire public libraries on our blog.

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Newsroom

Find out the latest news and updates on the vital issues facing ULC members.

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Innovations

Get inspired by cutting-edge work that addresses key issues among the ULC membership.

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Edge 360

New benchmarks for anti-racism, digital equity, economic opportunity and education.

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Strategic
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Education

Education transforms the lives of individuals and is the foundation for strong, economically vital communities. In the knowledge economy, the library is the learning institution ready to guide and support citizens at every age and level of need.

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Digital Equity

Libraries are critical anchors for digital access and equity in local communities. For millions of people, libraries are their gateway to the digital universe and digital readiness.

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Healthy, Sustainable Communities

Libraries are powerful partners for creating healthy, sustainable communities. With local government, business and other community organizations, libraries are key players in a strong economy, a healthy environment and racial/social equity.

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The Voice of Public Libraries

ULC provides a forum for library leaders to share best practices and innovative ideas that inspire programs that support 21st century learning, a strong economy and an active democracy.

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Find out how ULC membership empowers hundreds of leading library systems across North America.

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