This Week at ULC
Newsletter | June 10, 2020
SPEAKING UP AND TAKING ACTION
FOR RACE AND SOCIAL EQUITY
As library leaders, we understand the power of words, information and conversations. However, ending systemic racism and violence in our communities will require community leaders to not only speak up, but also take immediate and meaningful action.

This week, ULC's new action team focused on race and social equity will launch as part of our Going Forward from the Pandemic initiative. This group will work quickly to develop new library techniques, approaches and models to meaningfully advance just and inclusive communities. Stay tuned to ULC's communications for updates.

Below are ULC resources that can support your library's efforts:

We want to hear from you. Please email info@urbanlibraries.org with suggestions for resources and activities that can empower all libraries to stand up against systemic racism and violence.
ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING JUNE 18
We are excited to share that IMLS Director Crosby Kemper III will join ULC's Annual Member Meeting on June 18 to share key updates on the REALM Initiative and how libraries can respond to the extraordinary challenges in our world today.

During the meeting, you will also hear updates on ULC’s strategic initiatives, ongoing response to the COVID-19 outbreak and new Going Forward from the Pandemic action teams. You will get the opportunity to review the slate of ULC Executive Board candidates, elect the new Executive Board and connect with your peers.
GOING FORWARD FROM THE PANDEMIC
This week, our "Faces on the Front Line" feature on our coronavirus resource page highlights the great work of staff members from St. Louis County Library, Columbus Metropolitan Library, Virginia Beach Public Library, Shreve Memorial Library, Scottsdale Public Library, Wichita Public Library, Jersey City Free Public Library and Dayton Metro Library.

This week, ULC’s action teams for Digital Inclusion, Race and Social Equity, Small Businesses and Entrepreneurship and Partnering with Schools are holding kickoff meetings. Stay tuned to ULC communications for regular updates on this work and the Going Forward from the Pandemic initiative.
MEMBER NEWS ROUNDUP
Helping Patrons Get Certified to Work in IT
Sno-Isle Libraries

Sno-Isle Libraries has launched a new Virtual Worker Retraining Project geared towards helping people who are looking to secure IT jobs. Individuals will receive training and guidance towards achieving a CompTIA A+ certification, an entry-level certification required for many IT help desk jobs.
Debuting a New Mobile STEAM Classroom
La Porte County Public Library

Students in La Porte County will now have access to cutting-edge, hands-on lessons that will prepare them for a wide range of high-demand tech careers. The technology built into this new mobile classroom will expose students to the type of equipment used in local manufacturing facilities.
Grand Rapids Goes Fine Free
Grand Rapids Public Library

Earlier this month, Grand Rapids Public Library announced that it has eliminated all overdue fees for patrons. All fines on existing accounts will also be forgiven. “Fines disproportionately affect those in the community that could use the library the most,” said GRPL Director John McNaughton.
UPCOMING WEBINAR:
KINDNESS & JUSTICE
Join us for an upcoming webinar on Thursday, June 25 to learn how the team at Alameda County Library is aiming to create a world of kind, connected humans. Cindy Chadwick (County Librarian) and Deb Sica (Deputy County Librarian) will discuss how kindness can become systemic and institutionalized — and why libraries must play a role in this work.
UPCOMING MEMBER EVENTS
ULC Deputy Directors - COVID-19 Responses
Member Group Conference Call
June 10 | 4-5 p.m. ET
ULC Directors - COVID-19 Responses
Member Group Conference Call
June 11 | 4-5 p.m. ET
ULC Communications and Marketing Leaders - COVID-19 Responses
Member Group Conference Call
June 17 | Noon-1 p.m. ET
ULC Annual Member Meeting
All Member Conference Call
June 18 | 3-4 p.m. ET
ULC Education Leaders
Member Group Conference Call
June 23 | 2-3 p.m. ET
Kindess & Justice
Member Webinar
June 25 | 2-3 p.m. ET
ULC KNOWLEDGE CENTER
CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES
Calgary Public Library
DC Public Library
SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT
Urban Libraries Council on Instagram

ULC proudly supports  LGBTQ  individuals everywhere. Happy Pride Month! Libraries serve as safe spaces for people from all backgrounds and foster an environment of diversity, inclusion and respect always.⠀

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