Democracy
Public libraries are critical cornerstones of democracy, and democracy’s future is diminished when people’s access to power, information, a diversity of voices and the ability to influence policy are restricted. The battle to protect democracy is a global struggle playing out at the local level and libraries have landed on the front lines.
ULC provides ongoing support to urban public libraries as conveners for and facilitators of civic engagement and civil discourse. With robust resources and opportunities for peer learning, ULC uplifts member libraries' efforts to fight misinformation and disinformation, encourage an active citizenry where all are engaged in creating an equitable and just society, and ensure community members free and open access to information.
NEW Resource | Beyond Books: A Conversation Guide
The library's role in communities has become vastly different in the 21st century than originally conceived. Libraries are essential to equity goals and the civic health of democracy in the United States. However, community members and stakeholders such as government leaders do not always know the extent of the work that libraries do and how they serve social and policy goals.
This guide for library professionals is intended to support hosting community conversations about the changing role of libraries, highlighting community impacts and building local support. This resource would be best suited for branch managers and library leaders who are new to hosting community conversations. Users will find recommendations such as developing a project plan, suggestions for inviting community stakeholders, and tips for staying connected with local community leaders after the event. Also available within the guide are brainstorming worksheets, a printable discussion guide and sample outreach materials to get you started.
Declaration of Democracy
As leaders of North America’s urban public libraries, we must commit to preserving, protecting and advancing the highest hopes and ideals of democracy so all members of our communities may fully participate in the democratic process. Launched at ULC's 2022 Annual Forum, this declaration provides a baseline for building policies and actions that preserve and protect democracy in our communities.
Democracy Advisory Group
Every 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.
Democracy in Action
Every 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.
Book Sanctuaries
Explore examples of ULC member libraries that are driving the Book Sanctuary movement. Launched by the Chicago Public Library in 2022, Book Sanctuaries are spaces that collect and protect endangered books, make those books broadly accessible, and educate others on the importance of intellectual freedom.
Fine Free Map
Across North America, many library systems have gone "fine free," ceasing or limiting their use of overdue materials fines to reduce access barriers. ULC created an interactive map to help you understand and learn from libraries that have gone fine free.
Statement on Equitable Public Access to E-Books
Across North America, many library systems have gone "fine free," ceasing or limiting their use of overdue materials fines to reduce access barriers. ULC created an interactive map to help you understand and learn from libraries that have gone fine free.