As trusted, nonpartisan spaces rooted in community, libraries are uniquely positioned to make civic engagement feel accessible, approachable, and, quite simply, possible. They can offer something many other institutions can't: low-pressure environments where young adults can ask questions, explore ideas, connect with others, and build the confidence to participate in civic life on their own terms.Through ULC’s recently launched Civic Makers Lab for Adults program, 10 library systems from across the United States are exploring exactly what this can look like. The cohort is designing and testing experiential civic learning programs that help young adults aged 18-24 build civic knowledge through action—whether through community simulations, youth-led projects, or issue-based campaigns.

Over the past several months, I have had conversations with library leaders across North America that reinforce something important: public libraries continue to play an increasingly visible and essential role in our communities.

Every year, the Urban Libraries Council’s annual CEO Roundtable is an opportunity to convene with peers, to share your lessons and approaches, and ask for guidance. Here are ten takeaways from the convening...

"​With the spring recess behind us, I want to share a brief update on what we are seeing at the federal level. A recent court decision has preserved the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) for now, maintaining current funding pathways. This reflects sustained advocacy across the field and what is possible when libraries engage with a unified voice..."

"Last week ULC joined partners from across the field for COSLA’s Voices for Libraries Day on Capitol Hill, meeting with staff from the House Education and Workforce Committee and the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee on both the Republican and Democratic sides..."

"As we move into February, I want to acknowledge the pace and complexity many of you and your teams are experiencing across your communities and organizations. ULC’s support is centered on you and your libraries as you navigate this moment, through practical leadership resources, strong advocacy, and opportunities to stay connected to one another. Please lean on your ULC colleagues and peers as you support your teams and lead through change..."

Read the December "From the CEO" message from Brooks Rainwater, which highlights some major advocacy wins and opportunities for members' professional growth.

ULC celebrated the Creating Youth Opportunities initiative at the 2025 Annual Leadership Forum, where attendees were able to hear about the benefit of CYO programming in the participants' own words. View the video now.

In his latest message, ULC President & CEO Brooks Rainwater reflects on the strength of our shared leadership, the success of the 2025 ULC Annual Forum, and what’s ahead for ULC’s advocacy and data-driven initiatives.

I know many of you are carrying a lot right now. The climate in this country, and beyond, is shaping staff morale, community trust, and the daily realities inside your libraries. In times like these, the relationships we have with each other matter most. Here are a few priorities I want to elevate this month at ULC...