In his latest message, ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater celebrates the energy and impact of ULC member libraries during the busy summer season. From dynamic programming to national advocacy, libraries are creating meaningful connections and driving change. He shares updates on key initiatives like the launch of the ULC Fellows Program, the debut of the ULC Academy Branch Managers course, and ongoing federal advocacy to protect IMLS funding.

ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater addresses the urgent threat to federal library funding following news that state library grants from IMLS may be cut in half for FY2025. ULC is actively meeting with congressional leaders across party lines to push back on these cuts, advocate for FY2026 funding, and highlight the essential role libraries play in education, workforce development, and civic life.

At ULC, one of our top strategic priorities is to Support the Urban Library Leader—and that means equipping you with robust professional development opportunities, advocacy tools, and peer-to-peer networks that drive measurable impact.

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. This year, we are proud that more than 100 ULC member libraries shared nearly 240 innovative ideas to be considered for award recognition.

To help libraries advance their literacy programs and ensure equitable access to quality education, the Urban Libraries Council developed a Science of Reading Toolkit with guidance on implementing evidence-based reading strategies that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young readers

How does the increased need for e-book licenses in public libraries' collections mean higher costs? ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater addresses the need for fair and equitable access and pricing for e-content in libraries across the U.S. and Canada.

From May 19-21, 2024, ULC gathered more than 40 library directors and CEOs from across North America for our 2nd Annual CEO Roundtable. Held in partnership with the LA County Library and the Los Angeles Public Library, the event focused on strategies for public libraries’ responsiveness to the critical issue of homelessness.

Are you a public library leader who is eager to know where peer systems stand on questions related to operations and services? ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater encourages every member to participate in the annual Library Insights Survey.

How is ULC driving greater advocacy for urban libraries? Check out the latest blog post from ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater the federal legislation and funding resources needed to empower public libraries to meet evolving community needs.

How are libraries transforming lives and strengthening communities? Check out the latest blog post from ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater on the framework for public libraries to better serve — and transform! — their communities.