The Urban Libraries Council extends a massive thank you to all of the attendees, speakers, and sponsors who made the 2025 ULC Annual Leadership Forum such an incredible success—and to our generous hosts, the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library, for welcoming us to their vibrant city. From October 22–24, library leaders from across the U.S. and Canada came together to share ideas, strengthen connections, and explore how libraries can harness their civic power to shape thriving, equitable communities.

The Forum kicked off on Wednesday with a pre-conference workshop on ULC’s Creating Youth Opportunities Initiative, where participating libraries shared the innovative ways they are advancing economic mobility for young people. Later that afternoon, library CEOs gathered for a powerful conversation on equity gaps in compensation, highlighting how fair pay and advancement opportunities are essential to a sustainable library sector. The evening concluded with a lively Welcome Reception, generously sponsored by EBSCO, giving members a chance to reconnect and set the stage for the days ahead.

Thursday’s full day of programming brought engaging discussions on advocacy, narrative change, and coalition building—but the standout moment came during an inspiring keynote conversation with the Honorable Mitch Landrieu, former Mayor of New Orleans. In dialogue with ULC President & CEO Brooks Rainwater, Mayor Landrieu delivered a powerful message about how libraries can strengthen democracy and civic connection in an era of division. His words reminded everyone in the room that libraries are not just institutions—they are catalysts for community and hope.

On Friday, attendees reflected on the future of librarianship and the social impact of libraries through thought-provoking sessions with Tommi Laitio, Founder of Convivencia Urbana, and Bridget Marquis of Reimagining the Civic Commons. The Forum concluded with an address from Brooks Rainwater and ULC Board Chair Joey Crawford, who highlighted ULC’s growing impact, research, and vision for the year ahead.

Thank you again to everyone who helped make the 2025 Annual Leadership Forum such an energizing gathering—and especially to our Forum supporters EBSCO, Bibliotheca, Group 4, Ingram Content Group, OCLC and ThriftBooks.