Groundbreaking Work
ULC is leading the work in groundbreaking research and initiatives that are testing and enhancing new ways that libraries serve people and communities in the digital age. ULC Initiatives generate new service delivery models, best practices and tools of value to libraries of all sizes.
These initiatives focus on the tangible benefits which people and communities realize through engagement in high-quality digital opportunities that public libraries provide.
ULC Initiatives
AI and Digital Citizenship
Learn MoreULC is working to empower libraries to become respected thought leaders and essential community resources in the AI revolution, ensuring everyone has the tools to become responsible, successful and safe digital citizens as technology continues to rapidly evolve.
Digital Navigators
Learn MoreIn partnership with the Salt Lake City Public Library and National Digital Inclusion Alliance, ULC is advancing a new Digital Navigators service model to help libraries address the new and intensified digital access barriers resulting from COVID-19. Now being piloted by SLCPL and NDIA through September 2021, the Digital Navigators model offers a replicable blueprint for meeting the digital needs of underserved community members via phone-based support services.
Edge
Learn MoreEdge is a performance measurement system that guides libraries of all sizes to set measurable, strategic goals for digital inclusion and engage government and local leaders in meaningful conversations about 21st-century community needs.
Going Forward from the Pandemic
Learn MoreGoing Forward from the Pandemic is an unprecedented effort to mobilize ULC's entire member community to establish new models, techniques and approaches that can help all libraries lead their communities into a stronger post-pandemic future.
The Leaders Library Card Challenge
Learn MoreThe Leaders Library Card Challenge is a national effort to ensure that every child enrolled in school has access to the valuable learning resources available at public libraries.
Learning Labs
Learn MoreLearning Labs are designed to facilitate a research-based model known as Connected Learning – one that promotes discovery, creativity, critical thinking and real world learning through activities and experiences that bring together academics and young people’s interests, often facilitated by digital and traditional media.
Libraries Stand Tall
Learn MoreEvery ULC library — in small and large ways — is organizing and contributing to civil discussions and programs that support a strong democracy. To best learn from one another, ULC is collecting descriptions of your efforts and making these available on this website.
Library-School Partnerships
Learn MoreLearn more about Library-School Partnerships Closing Opportunity Gaps.
Partners for Middle School STEM
Learn MoreThis two-year project focused on building community partnerships that resulted in increased science, technology, engineering and math learning opportunities for low-income middle school students in urban areas.
Strengthening Libraries as Entrepreneurial Hubs
Learn MoreIn collaboration with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, ULC is working to strengthen the role libraries play in nurturing and promoting entrepreneurship in the communities they serve.
Summer Learning
Learn MoreULC libraries serve as essential summer learning leaders in their communities, providing innovative summer reading and active learning opportunities for children, youth and families during this critical time when schools are closed and the risk of falling behind is high.