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ULC Member News
Newsletter | November 6, 2024
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New Toolkit: Engaging Elected Officials and Cultivating Library Advocates | |
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A Guide to Engaging Elected Officials and Cultivating Library Advocates in Government
New Advocacy Resource from ULC
We’re excited to introduce the Urban Libraries Council’s new toolkit, "Engaging Elected Officials and Cultivating Library Advocates in Government," exclusively for ULC members. This essential resource is crafted to help library professionals build strong relationships with elected officials, demonstrating firsthand the vital role libraries play in literacy, information access, and lifelong learning. This toolkit provides step-by-step guidance to plan impactful visits, including customizable outreach templates and a detailed checklist to ensure a memorable experience for visiting officials
Public libraries serve as foundational pillars of democracy, education, and community engagement—and you can amplify that mission by inviting local, state, and federal representatives to see it in action. By showcasing the daily work of libraries—children captivated by story time, job seekers accessing critical resources, and seniors learning new digital skills—you can cultivate dedicated advocates who understand and support your library’s mission.
This resource is exclusive to ULC members and is available only in the ULC Member Hub's Knowledge Exchange. You must log in to access. If you are unsure of your login information or need to create one, please email info@urbanlibraries.org for assistance.
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Halifax Central Library Receives Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certified Gold Ranking
Halifax Public Libraries
Halifax Central Library recently achieved the prestigious ‘RHF Accessibility Certified Gold’ status—the highest accessibility rating available through the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC) program. This Gold certification reflects the library's strong commitment to providing an accessible, barrier-free environment where everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy public spaces. As Megan Gainer, Director of Facilities, explains, “Accessibility is not a project. It’s a lifelong commitment that requires a strong foundation and a willingness to listen.” READ MORE.
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Drive With Pride to Support the Library
Las Vegas-Clark County Library District
Nevada residents can now show their support for libraries on the road with the new "I Love My Library" license plate, designed by the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District. The plates are now available for order online or at the DMV. Proceeds support essential library programs and services for all ages, so Nevadans can drive with pride while funding literacy and learning in your community. READ MORE.
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Introducing the Pratt Free Market
Enoch Pratt Free Library
The Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore has launched the Pratt Free Market, a new initiative at the Southeast Anchor Library in Highlandtown to address food insecurity in the community. Stocked with fresh produce, dry goods, and other essentials, the market allows residents to fill a library-provided bag with groceries free of charge. Food insecurity remains a critical issue, affecting 42 million people across the U.S., including one in three Marylanders. As a Maryland Food Bank Distribution Partner, the Pratt Free Market is 90% volunteer-run, supported by both library and community members. READ MORE.
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Hundreds Celebrate Grand Reopening of Denver Central Library
Denver Public Library
After years of anticipation, Denver's Central Library celebrated its grand reopening on Sunday, drawing in hundreds of residents and local officials eager to see the newly transformed space. The extensive renovations, funded by the Elevate Denver bond program, have revitalized the 500,000-square-foot library, offering a modern, light-filled atmosphere designed to serve as a welcoming community hub. Denver Public Library Executive Director Michelle Jeske highlighted the importance of libraries in creating a strong community, calling the Central Library a sanctuary where all are welcome to connect, learn, and grow. READ MORE.
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Celebrating Access to Books with a Read-In at PLYMC
The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County hosted a celebration last weekend to honor the freedom to read, focusing on the importance of unrestricted access to diverse ideas and perspectives. The event featured a read-in and discussions on the impact of censorship, with a selection of books that have faced bans or restrictions available for attendees. PLYMC Executive “Having the freedom to read and to exchange ideas is one of the fundamental concepts that’s enshrined in our democracy,” said PLYMC Executive Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek. READ MORE.
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Reminder: Effective Strategies and Models for Addressing Homelessness | |
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Effective Strategies and Models for Urban Libraries Addressing Homelessness
ULC Leadership Brief Informed By 2024 CEO Roundtable
Public libraries across North America are increasingly at the forefront of addressing the needs of those experiencing homelessness. In cities large and small, individuals and families find themselves without a permanent place to call home, so they seek refuge in our public libraries, where they can find resources, safety, and a sense of belonging.
So earlier this year, the Urban Libraries Council (ULC) convened leaders at our CEO Roundtable to discuss how a comprehensive approach—one that includes support for unhoused individuals along with policy advocacy and increased funding—can strengthen homeless services in libraries. This convening helped inform our latest Leadership Brief, which outlines best practices around community partnerships, staff development, and intentional physical design to better serve unhoused patrons and support library staff.
The brief features innovative strategies from Brooklyn Public Library, Calgary Public Library, Dallas Public Library, DC Public Library, Denver Public Library, LA County Library, Los Angeles Public Library, Salt Lake City Public Library, San Diego Public Library, and Spokane Public Library.
Libraries are uniquely positioned to lead change in this area. Download the brief and discover how libraries can make a significant impact at the link below.
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Recording: ULC Civic Health Virtual Summit | |
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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.
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Alameda County Library
"Celebrate Día de los Muertos with AC Library! In honor of this Mesoamerican tradition, stop by our libraries to view the beautiful ofrendas (altars) created to honor loved ones. Check out this ofrenda at the Albany Library!"
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Escondido Public Library
"Our Horror Jeopardy night was a scream! 👻 Huge thanks to all the horror fans who joined us for a night of chills, thrills, and trivia terror! 🎃🕸️"
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Lawrence Public Library
"In LPL book clubs, we all fam! Open to all and we have a little something for every reader. ❤️ Run your own book club? Ask about our Book Club in a Bag service!"
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Sacramento Public Library
"Play is essential. When children play, they learn valuable skills as they engage in and make sense of their world. Support your child’s learning and check out an Early Learning Kit. Each kit includes a high-quality toy and book to play and learn with your little one. Link in our bio."
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