Celebrating Groundbreaking Work in Public Libraries: ULC's Innovations Initiative
Written by Brooks Rainwater, President and CEO, Urban Libraries Council
At the heart of our communities, public libraries are breaking new ground every day. The Urban Libraries Council (ULC) is proud to showcase these changemakers through our Innovations Initiative, which has amplified transformative projects from our member libraries for 15 years.
The Innovations Initiative celebrates the impactful work and organizational success of public libraries across the United States and Canada. Covering six categories, the ULC Innovations Initiative spotlights inventive projects that raise awareness about the library’s services, advance educational initiatives for all ages, and champion workforce and economic development. Libraries also share ideas that focus on enhancing health and wellness, promoting inclusion and digital equity, and improving internal operations through strategic staff management.
This year, we are proud that more than 100 ULC member libraries shared nearly 240 innovative ideas to be considered for award recognition. Each of this year’s entries represent forward-thinking solutions designed to elevate the library’s mission. These ideas not only serve as models for other libraries, but also highlight the evolving role libraries play in ensuring that every member of the community has the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
A special thank you to every ULC member library that participated this year. Your ideas are not only recognized but are now part of the permanent Innovations Initiative database on the ULC website, ensuring these concepts can inspire and empower other libraries. This resource is a great starting point when you are developing a new program or seeking inspiration for a project. Visitors to the Innovations Initiative webpage can use the search or filter features in the database to narrow down the ideas presented.
Of the numerous submissions entered this year, several stood out for their out-of-the-box thinking and potential to create sweeping changes across the urban library field. These Top Innovator and Honorable Mention award winners underscore how libraries are actively shaping the future of our cities through innovative services, inclusive programs, and strategic management.