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

New Resource from ULC

At a time when reading proficiency levels for students in the United States and Canada are in a decline, libraries can play a critical role in advancing literacy and ensuring equitable access to quality education. To support this work, 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.  

The toolkit is structured around key components essential for creating impactful youth literacy programs and recommended strategies for your library to take. By embracing these evidence-based approaches, libraries can ensure that their services are inclusive, relevant, and effective, ultimately fostering a more literate and empowered community. Every child deserves the opportunity to become a confident and capable reader, and this toolkit is a vital resource in achieving that goal. 

Be sure to also bookmark ULC’s Science of Reading section of our website to access all available resources on this topic, including key takeaways from our recent webinar, “Unlocking Literacy: Five Action Steps for Implementing the Science of Reading into Summer Programs at Your Library.”  

ULC’s Science of Reading work is generously supported by Baker & Taylor. 

From the CEO: "Libraries and the Science of Reading is a Winning Combination"

ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater

In this month's from ULC President and CEO Brooks Rainwater, read more about the brand new Science of Reading toolkit and the steps that your library can take to create impactful youth literacy programs. By embracing the Science of Reading, libraries can ensure that their services are inclusive, relevant, and effective, ultimately fostering a more literate and empowered community. 

VIRTUAL SUMMIT: Empowering Libraries to Strengthen Civic Health and Democracy 

Tuesday, September 17 | 1:00 to 3:00 pm ET

Public libraries play a crucial role in fostering civic health by providing spaces for community engagement, promoting informed citizenship, and facilitating access to resources that support democratic participation and social equity. As the U.S. approaches a significant presidential election this fall and Canada prepares for an expected federal election next year, the Urban Libraries Council is hosting a virtual summit to explore how libraries are strengthening civic health and democracy in their communities. 

Join us on Tuesday, September 17, at 1:00 p.m. ET for an array of programming, including lightning talks from guest speakers, a panel discussion with library leaders, and breakout discussions with other attendees. Throughout the two-hour virtual summit, we will explore themes related to how libraries encourage an active citizenry and help facilitate civil discourse. Speakers and panelists will address how libraries are leading efforts to counter misinformation and disinformation, promoting race equity, and fostering socioeconomic mixing.  

Speakers: 

• Myke Atkinson, Service Design Lead, Calgary Public Library 
• Vickery Bowles, City Librarian, Toronto Public Library 
• Leander Croker, Deputy Director, Greensboro Public Library  
• Allison Grubbs, Director of Libraries, Broward County Library 
• Shamichael Hallman, Director of Civic Engagement and Economic Opportunity, Urban Libraries Council 
• Kristin Hansen, Executive Director, Civic Health Project 
• Brooks Rainwater, President and CEO, Urban Libraries Council 
• John Sarrouf, Co-Executive Director and Director of Program Development, Essential Partners  
• Lisa Kay Solomon, Designer in Residence, Stanford d. school 
• Deanna Troust, Founder, Truth in Common 

2024 ULC Annual Leadership Forum Registration Now CLOSED

October 23-25, 2024 | Philadelphia, PA

Due to popular interest in ULC's 2024 Annual Leadership Forum in Philadelphia, we are at capacity, and registration closed on Friday, September 6. If you are interested in attending, please add your name to the waitlist. 

Should registration spots become available, we will notify individuals on the waitlist between September 6 and September 30. If you are moved off the waitlist, your registration can be reserved for 24 hours from the time the notice is sent. After this window, the spot will no longer be guaranteed.

Please note that ULC's hotel room block at The Notary Hotel is sold out. If you are moved off the waitlist and need accommodations, you will need to arrange your own lodging. If you have any questions about the ULC Annual Leadership Forum, please email us at info@urbanlibraries.org.

Sue Williamson

President of CILIP

Library Association of the UK

"Power in Our Communities"

By Sue Williamson MBE, CILIP President

In August, the city of Liverpool in the United Kingdom experienced anti-immigration protests that led to vandalism across the town, including a devastating fire at a local library branch. Community members responded in spirit and nearly £250,000 was raised to help rebuild the library. Follow the link to read an essay from Sue Williamson MBE, president of CILIP, the UK library and information association, for a universal message of the many ways libraries matter.

Libraries = Learning Without Limits: the New E-rate Hotspot Lending Program

September 25, 2024 | 2 p.m. ET

Many individuals lacking home internet turn to their library for access. During the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program – and before – libraries sought solutions to provide flexible off-premises Wi-Fi access to their patrons. Now, as part of the FCC's Learn Without Limits initiative, Wi-Fi hotspot devices and service are eligible for E-rate funding. While the program builds upon the success of the ECF, there are many new program rules.

For libraries, applying for E-rate can be challenging, but there are many in our community to call on for help. Brought to you by the American Library Association, the Chief Officers of State Library Agencies, the Urban Libraries Council, and the Association for Rural and Small Libraries, this webinar offers discussion from library E-rate experts on the new E-rate hotspot lending guidelines and starting or building upon a hotspot lending program in your library. Whether your library already uses E-rate funding or your library is considering E-rate for the first time, this webinar will discuss the new program rules and consider ways for libraries to best leverage the new program. 

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.

Best Practices for Libraries: Learnings from the Barbershop Books Pilot for Libraries

Webinar Follow Up

If you missed ULC's "Community Engagement Matters" webinar about the Barbershop Books Pilot for Libraries, you can find all key takeaways and best practices in this new resource.

Learn how pilot libraries Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, Cleveland Public Library, Columbus Metropolitan Library and Shreve Memorial Library cultivated strong partnerships with community barbers to make tangible change: the pilot improved access to books for an estimated 15,113 Black and African American males aged 5-9. 

Members can find this resource on our Past Events page and in the ULC Member Hub Knowledge Exchange.

Questions? Want to Submit a Story?

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