While AI promises to enhance our communities in remarkable ways, it also poses significant threats to the prosperity, privacy and security of individuals who do not understand or cannot access these new technologies. A new ULC Leadership Brief published this week provides targeted strategies for North America's public libraries to ensure an equitable and inclusive future in the Age of AI. 

"The impact of AI reaches far beyond technology - it is causing a foundational shift in how people learn, work, connect and grow," said ULC President and CEO Susan Benton. "This new Leadership Brief provides a vital resource for libraries to confidently face these changes and to lead their communities in shaping an equitable and democratic future for AI."

To celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month, Roanoke County Public Library joined other local libraries in introducing new Youth Milestone library cards that are now available for all patrons. Community members submitted original artwork for these new library cards as part of the #RVLCreateIt library card design competition launched last year by the Roanoke Valley Library Consortium. The community weighed in on their favorites and now the new cards can be picked up at any RCPL branch.