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ULC Member News

Newsletter | October 9, 2024

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Now Announcing the 2024 Innovations Winners!

For 15 years, the Urban Libraries Council has proudly highlighted and honored our library members through the Innovations Initiative. We are so excited to announce the winners of the 2024 Innovations cycle!  


From campaigns that promote civic engagement and intellectual freedom to programs that enhance digital connectivity and economic mobility, more than 230 library projects covering six categories were submitted by ULC members from across the United States and Canada to be considered for the top awards. 


Congratulations to the Denver Public Library (CO), Gwinnett County Public Library (GA), Miami-Dade Public Library System (FL), San Francisco Public Library (CA), Toronto Public Library (Ontario), and Virginia Beach Public Library (VA) for being named 2024 Top Innovators! 


These libraries are receiving the “Top Innovator” award for the originality of their work, demonstrative and measurable outcomes of their submitted entry, and the potential for other libraries to replicate and implement these most innovative of programs. 


Honorable Mentions are also being awarded to the Broward County Library (FL), Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh (PA), Memphis Public Libraries (TN), New York Public Library (NY), Pioneer Library System (OK), and San Mateo County Libraries (CA)


We extend a special thank you to everyone who submitted a compelling Innovations Initiative entry and to our judges for their support in identifying the winners! Our members’ contributions are immensely valued, and all submitted entries are a permanent part of the Innovation Initiative database on the ULC website.  

Watch the Winners Video Showcase!

From the CEO: "Celebrating Groundbreaking Work in Public Libraries: ULC's Innovations Initiative"

ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater

 

At the heart of our communities, public libraries are breaking new ground every day. The Urban Libraries Council (ULC) is proud to showcase these changemakers through our Innovations Initiative, which has amplified transformative projects from our member libraries for 15 years. CONTINUE READING

Read Now

Recording: ULC Civic Health Virtual Summit

ULC Convenes Experts for the 2024 Civic Health Virtual Summit

Empowering Libraries to Strengthen Civic Health and Democracy


The Urban Libraries Council's (ULC) Virtual Summit: Empowering Libraries to Strengthen Civic Health and Democracy, held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, brought together leaders and innovators from the public library sector to examine the essential role libraries play in fostering civic health and strengthening democracy. The event began with opening remarks from ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater, who emphasized how libraries serve as crucial platforms for civic engagement.


From providing unbiased election information to fostering safe spaces for public discourse, libraries are not just information hubs—they are defenders of democracy. Throughout the two-hour virtual summit, our panelists explored how libraries lead efforts to counter misinformation and disinformation, promote race equity, and foster socioeconomic mixing. Discussions highlighted libraries’ vital role in combating misinformation, encouraging voter participation, and supporting marginalized communities.


Read on for a recap of the Virtual Summit sessions and access recordings of the discussions.

See Full Event Recap and Recordings
MEMBER NEWS ROUNDUP
 

Welcome, New ULC Member!

Fort Worth Public Library


ULC is excited to welcome our newest member, Fort Worth Public Library from Fort Worth, Texas! Please give them a warm welcome and look out for new peers on your Member Community calls in the future.


View the full list of ULC members.

Presenting the Patrick Losinski Art Gallery

ï»żColumbus Metropolitan Library


Columbus Metropolitan Library has officially renamed its art gallery the Patrick Losinski Gallery in honor of its retiring CEO. Losinski, who announced his retirement in April, leaves CML after 22 years as CEO. Located on the second floor of Main Library, the gallery – formerly known as the Carnegie Gallery –features established and emerging Ohio artists. Supported by the Friends of the Library, it provides an opportunity to experience art in the library’s inclusive, welcoming setting. READ MORE.

Banned Books at the Library: A Public Space for a Public Discussion

Cedar Rapids Public Library


When you walk into the Cedar Rapids Public Library, you’re greeted a display outlining the timeline of challenges to books throughout history, showcasing several titles that have come into controversy over the years. "‘Isn’t that interesting, oh my gosh I read that book as a kid I didn’t even know it was an issue’ and so having something in a public space meant for that public discussion is definitely what we’re trying to do,” said CR Public Library director Dara Schmidt. READ MORE.

"O Lar" Exhibit Shows the Many Meanings of "Home"

Portland Public Library


Stepping off Monument Square and descending the stairs of the Portland Public Library, the space below gives the impression of entering a living room with art hanging on the walls. On Oct. 4, the annual illustration exhibit in the Portland Public Library’s Lewis Gallery opened, revealing interpretations of the theme of “home” by local artists hung amidst life-size line drawings of furniture on the walls of the gallery. The exhibit titled “O Lar,” which means “The Home” in Brazilian Portuguese, was curated and “furnished” by Portland illustrator Michaela Flint. READ MORE.

A Community Gathering Place for All

Tulsa City-County Library


Although the library has been a resource for generations, Ellen Cummings — chief operating officer at TCCL — wants people to know that it's still a go-to resource in the digital age. In her 28 years working at the library, she’s seen a lot of changes. "The library has stayed relevant because people still need to know how to discern good information,” she added. Throughout the years, even her library card hasn’t changed. READ MORE.

More Torontonians Are Using the Library

Toronto Public Library


Toronto Public Library is seeing a significant increase in the number of Torontonians using library services. A recent Forum Research Inc. survey reveals that 81% accessed services in the past year, a 13% increase from 2019. Among these users, 68% visited library branches in person, a 6% increase from pre-pandemic levels. While book browsing remains the primary reason for visits, usage patterns are shifting. Notably, access to technology has become an increasingly important draw. READ MORE.

 

Recent Publications

Members featured in new report on AI and libraries 

University at Albany's Center for Technology in Government

ULC and the University at Albany’s Center for Technology in Government (CTG UAlbany) are partnering to examine how libraries can empower communities to better understand Artificial Intelligence and ensure its ethical design and application. The first report from this three-year research project is now available online, along with an interactive map. 

The Role of Libraries as Public Spaces in Countering Misinformation, Disinformation, and Social Isolation in the Age of Generative AI 

New ULC Leadership Brief


new Leadership Brief from the Urban Libraries Council examines how public libraries are uniquely positioned to combat the rise of AI and growing widespread isolation by promoting digital literacy and fostering community connections.  

Science of Reading Toolkit: Evidence-Based Approaches for Public Libraries

New Resource from ULC


The Urban Libraries Council developed a Science of Reading Toolkit with guidance on implementing evidence-based reading strategies that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young readers.  

LJ Movers & Shakers 2025: Nominations Open

LJ Movers & Shakers 2025: Nominations Open

Submit by October 18, 2024


The editors of Library Journal need your help in identifying emerging talents in the library world—both great leaders and behind-the-scenes contributors who are providing inspiration and model programs for others.  

 

LJ's 23rd annual round of Movers & Shakers will profile up-and-coming individuals from around the world who are innovative, creative, making a difference fighting against censorship, and helping improve their workplace. From librarians and non-degreed library workers to publishers, vendors, coders, entrepreneurs, reviewers, and others who impact the library field—Movers & Shakers 2025 will celebrate those people who are moving all types of libraries ahead! 

 

Nominations are due by October 18, 2024.

Submit Your Nominations Now

YOUR ULC RESOURCES:

 
 

SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT:

Santa Clara City Library


"On a sizzling Saturday in October the bookmobile made its annual trip down Monroe Street in the Santa Clara Parade of Champions! After our grandstand pass we joined up with the Library Foundation and Friends in the Community Village, and cranked up the AC!"

See the Post

Olathe Library


"We had so much fun at our Steel Drums for Kids program last week! A huge thank you to Candice Hill for showing us how to play the steel drums!"

See the Post

Mississauga Library


"Erin Meadows Library is hosting The Human Library on October 19. Borrow a human book to learn about their culture and experiences."

See the Post

Mid-Continent Public Library


"These kids had the best time practicing their reading skills with Pet Partners. Maggie and Mo were the best listeners ever! đŸ“šâ€ïžđŸ© Don't miss your opportunity to Read to a Pet. "

See the Post

Questions? Want to Submit a Story?


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

 
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