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ULC Member News

January 29, 2025

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Future-Proof Your Skills and Become an AI Trailblazer in Your Library

Exclusive AI Training Offered to ULC Members

AI Fluency for Everyday Impact: Mindstone AI Skills Training from EBSCOlearning

Professional Development Course | March 4, 11, 18 and 25 at 12 p.m. ET / 9 a.m. PT


The future of libraries is here—and it’s powered by AI! In partnership with EBSCO, ULC is thrilled to offer members the Mindstone AI Skills Training program. Designed for non-technical employees, this innovative online series provides practical AI tools to streamline workflows, boost productivity, and drive workplace innovation. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to deepen your understanding, this course equips library staff with actionable strategies to enhance their impact.


Investing in your professional development has never been more important. This program is a long-term investment in your skills, delivering AI tools and strategies you can use for years to come. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to lead with AI in your library, driving positive change for your team and the communities you serve. 


Course Details:

  • Four live online sessions:
  • March 4, 11, 18, and 25
  • 12:00 p.m. ET / 9:00 a.m. PT


Registration includes:

  • Access to the Mindstone platform
  • Live, expert-led online sessions
  • Tailored training resources
  • Practical, hands-on strategies to apply immediately


Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and become an AI trailblazer in your library. Sign up today!

Learn More and Register

Are you taking advantage of the ULC Member think tank?

ULC’s 13 Member Communities are your direct connection to a network of peers who understand your challenges, share your goals, and can offer valuable insights. These role-specific groups provide a space to exchange ideas, get feedback, and stay ahead of industry trends through ever-growing listserv conversations and monthly, peer-driven calls that deliver lessons, insights, and actionable next steps.


Whether you specialize in one area or wear multiple hats, you’re welcome to join multiple communities to engage in the conversations that matter most to you.


Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, collaborate, and strengthen your impact—make sure you're part of a ULC Member Community today!

Explore and Join the Member Communtiies

- MEMBER NEWS ROUNDUP -

Recent Stories From ULC Members

Welcoming New ULC Members

Cambridge Public Library, Edison Public Library


ULC is excited to welcome our two newest members, Cambridge Public Library (Ontario) and Edison Public Library (New Jersey). Please join us in welcoming them to the ULC family, and be sure to say hello to any new folks on your Member Community calls! Explore the full list of ULC members.

NPR: "Why is your Libby hold taking so long?" The Nuances of E-Content Pricing

Pioneer Library System


NPR Podcasts — "Why is your Libby hold taking so long, and how can you be 'in line' to borrow a digital book from the library? According to Lisa Wells, Executive Director of the Pioneer Library System in Oklahoma and co-Chair of ULC's E-Content Action Team, the answer begins with how libraries purchase digital materials from publishers." HEAR MORE.

Digital Innovation Meets Human Connection in New Short Film

Toronto Public Library


A new short film by TPL Innovator in Residence Liz Whitmere celebrates the profound impact of Toronto Public Library (TPL), showcasing how its spaces and services have sparked passions, fostered connections, and changed lives. Created for TPL’s 140th birthday and the 10th anniversary of its Digital Innovation Hubs, the film shares heartwarming stories from staff and community members, highlighting both the tangible resources and the meaningful relationships found within the library’s walls. WATCH NOW.

Support for CA Libraries Affected by Los Angeles Fires

Los Angeles Public Library, LA County Library


In the wake of the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area, many ULC members have been asking how they can help. Here are some funds to provide support:


Palisades Area: LAPL has worked with the Library Foundation of Los Angeles to set up the Palisades Branch Recovery Fund to support the local community and the Staff Emergency Support Fund to help LAPL staff who have lost their homes or sustained significant damage.


Altadena Area: The LA County Library Foundation and Altadena Libraries have created the Collected Wellness Fund for supplies and relief efforts in Altadena, where residents have been greatly impacted by the Eaton fire.

Membership Webinar Recording

As a ULC member, you have access to a vast range of resources and offerings. In case you missed our "Discover the Full Power of Your ULC Membership" webinar last week, check out the recording and resources below to ensure you are taking full advantage of your ULC membership.

Benefits and Tools of Your ULC Membership

Access the ULC Member Hub

Need a Member Hub Account?

Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities

Creating a Culture of Belonging Webinar Series

Multi-Part Webinar Series | February through August

In this multi-part webinar series from ULC, experts in the library field will share their insights and progress on the journey to creating a culture of belonging. The webinar series will cover the following topics:


  • The Public Library Was Not Always for Everyone
  • Self-Awareness & Reflective Leadership First
  • Auditing for Change: Understanding Systemic Inequities
  • Building Inclusive Organizations
  • Developing Diverse Teams
  • Leading Belonging Initiatives
  • Commitment and Accountability
  • Welcoming the Community Inside and Out
Learn More & Register

Realizing a Community-Centered Library: Strategies for Leaders - ULC Member Discount!

Webinar Series | March 25, April 1 and 8

Library Journal & School Library Journal Professional Development, in partnership with the Urban Libraries Council, is offering a 3-week online course, "Realizing a Community-Centered Library: Strategies for Leaders," on Tuesdays—March 25, April 1, and April 15 at 2:00 p.m. This course combines live and asynchronous content to guide participants through strategic community engagement, from self-assessment and relationship building to developing a strategic engagement plan.


ULC members qualify for a discount on this course. Learn more about the course and access the registration code.

Learn More & Register

SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT:

Miami-Dade Public Library System


"We had an amazing time at the @miamidadepubliclibrary Local Author Book Fair this weekend! 📚"

See the Post

Alexandria Library


"This morning, we surprised Duncan's favorite storytime librarian of 40 years, Venetta with her very own READ poster!"

See the Post

Harris County Public Library


"Earlier this month, we had a beautiful ceremony honoring the graduates of our Career Online High School program!"

See the Post

YOUR ULC RESOURCES:

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Contact ULC's Senior Communications Manager Elise Calanni at ecalanni@urbanlibraries.org.

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