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.

Libraries are helping communities strengthen literacy, expand workforce opportunities, navigate technology, build connection, and foster civic trust — while continuing to serve as welcoming public spaces for all.

At ULC, our work is centered on supporting you and your teams as you lead through this moment.

Whether through federal engagement, executive convenings, leadership development, research and data, or peer learning opportunities, our focus remains the same: helping libraries lead confidently, visibly, and strategically in a rapidly evolving environment.

Just this week, ULC joined with ARSL, COSLA, CULC, and PLA to publicly address the ongoing e-books pricing crisis and call for change from the largest publishers. This unified effort reinforces the importance of libraries speaking collectively around access, literacy, and the future of reading.

Read the full joint statement here.

At the US federal level, ULC also continues meeting with Republicans and Democrats in both the House and Senate to reinforce the role libraries play in workforce development, literacy, civic engagement, and digital access, while continuing to elevate the importance of sustained IMLS investment.

That same focus on leadership and long-term impact carried into our 2026 ULC CEO Roundtable in Chicago centered on Libraries and the Renewal of Civic Trust. Library leaders from across North America came together to discuss how libraries continue helping communities learn, connect, and strengthen trust during a period of rapid change.

Take a moment to read the Ten Key Takeaways from the Roundtable.

We also know that strong libraries require strong and supported teams. Through ULC Academy, Member Communities, Directors Calls, and peer learning opportunities, ULC continues investing in real-time education and professional development designed specifically for public library professionals. Our goal is to help library staff strengthen leadership skills, navigate change, and grow as confident leaders within your organizations and communities. We hope you are engaging in the many professional development and peer education offerings available.

Save these Dates!

• ULC Annual Business Meeting: June 11 at 4 pm ET

• 2026 ULC Annual Leadership Forum in Las Vegas – Registration Opens: June 11

We look forward to continuing to work alongside you and your teams in the months ahead. Thank you for your leadership, your partnership, and your continued commitment to strengthening library systems across North America.