Libraries Transform. We Help.
The ULC Academy, a product of the Urban Libraries Council (ULC), empowers public library professionals by providing accessible, practical certification and training that leverages ULC’s unique expertise and resources.
Through our courses, we foster essential skills, innovative thinking, and a commitment to community and civic engagement equipping library leaders to meet the evolving needs of diverse communities.
We are dedicated to fostering inclusive, equitable education that supports personal and professional growth, helping public libraries and their leaders thrive in an ever-changing landscape. Our goal is to prepare library professionals to be trusted partners, community conveners and connectors, tech facilitators, information experts, and lifelong learning advocates, evolving to meet the needs of rapidly changing information and community landscapes.
Access ULC Academy Now!
2026 Live Offerings:
* ULC plans to offer a version of Managing from the Middle annually.
Courses Currently Offered:
Managing from the Middle: Influence Leaders
Certificate Program - 20 Credit Hours
Though management is a core responsibility for many in librarianship, it is not always taught in library school or easily learned on the job. To be effective, many managers, particularly in administration, must learn to work with staff they may not directly supervise to achieve the library's overarching goals. Often, they must learn how to use their position of influence strategically in order to drive change and get everyone moving in the same direction. Leading by influence requires self-reflection, intentional learning, and continued practice. This three-month course will instruct new or aspiring administrative leaders to build the skills necessary to achieve impact in their role.
Live Meeting Dates (all at 12 p.m.- 2 p.m. ET): July 9, July 23, August 6, August 20, September 3, September 17, and October 1.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! - Discounts Available!
Included in Your ULC Membership:
Webinar Repository & Asynchronous Courses
As an exclusive members-only benefit, ULC offers high-quality self-paced courses on a variety of topics through ULC Academy. Topics include becoming data fluent, making your library an entrepreneurship hub, amplifying summer and STEM, and more. Additionally, through the Academy, members have access to an exclusive catalog of ULC’s members-only webinars in one easy-to-access place. Find courses and track your learning in the ULC Academy Platform.