This Week at ULC
Newsletter | August 25, 2021
ULC LAUNCHES NEW "TRIGGER TERMS" RESOURCE
ULC has launched a new resource on our website, the Trigger Terms: Harmful Detours and Healing Redirects framework and web page. Developed by ULC's Anti-Racism action team, this new framework names words and phrases that spur polarization and conflict ("trigger terms”) as well as interpretations that can derail productive conversations (“harmful detours”) and suggested translations to foster mutual respect and understanding (“healing redirects”).

Libraries and leaders can leverage the web page’s language to:
 
  • Define key terms for use in policies, MOUs, strategic plans and other documents or web pages.
  • Structure conversations and self-reflection among staff teams and program participants.
  • Build alignment and shared language with partners such as government and school leaders.
  • Provide talking points to prepare staff for challenging conversations with external and internal stakeholders.

The terms included on this web page will receive ongoing additions and updates. Please contact info@urbanlibraries.org with questions.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT RESOURCES
FCC to Open Second ECF Application Filing Window

Today, the FCC announced that it will open a second filing window for libraries to request future support from the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program. Libraries can apply for funding from September 28 to October 13 to cover broadband and devices for students and patrons who lack home internet access. Learn More >

Stay tuned to ULC communications for regular updates and please review the latest resources on ULC’s American Rescue Plan Act web page.
MEMBER NEWS ROUNDUP
Pictured: Completed spirit nest at Anythink Bennett
Fostering a Deep Connection with Nature
Anythink Libraries

This summer, Anythink Libraries is encouraging patrons to gather outdoors by supporting the well-being of their community. The library is working with Jayson Fann, an artist from Monterey, Calif., who builds spirit nests from reclaimed wood. Six nests have been commissioned, with four already completed. In one of the local communities, people foraged for wood and helped build the nest. “We wanted to build that moment of wonder and recovery and healing and the connection to nature that you get walking in nature, as opposed to learning about rocks and what-not.” said Director of Customer Experience Suzanne McGowan.
Offering Free Legal Advice to Community Members
Baltimore County Public Library

Through a partnership with Maryland Legal Aid, BCPL debuted a new Mobile Library Law Center earlier this month that will travel to areas of need in Baltimore County. The vehicle will serve as a mobile legal office with attorneys available to provide free civil legal advice to residents. “We are proud to be the first library system in the country to own and operate a mobile legal vehicle, servicing those who don't have access to legal help due to financial means, immobility or lack of transportation,” said Baltimore County Public Library Director Sonia Alcántara-Antoine.  
Providing Access to Free Bike Repair Kits
Regina Public Library

This summer, Regina Public Library is partnering with Bike Regina to loan out DIY Bike Repair Kits to community members. Each kit, which can be checked out at the Central Library, contains a full set of 36 professional-grade tools and a DIY repair manual. Patrons may check out the kits for three weeks at a time, and can renew their kit if there is no hold placed on them. 
SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION
Issuing Special Edition "QPL Baby Cards"
Queens Public Library
QPL debuted a new program aimed at introducing literacy to the youngest residents of Queens — children ages zero to five. Thanks to a new partnership, every baby delivered at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst will receive a special QPL Baby package filled with gifts and resources to start a life of learning. A sample card along with an application, a map highlighting all QPL locations and QPL bibs and bookmarks will be included in diaper bags provided to new parents by the hospital. “The goal of ‘QPL Baby Card’ is to introduce literacy and a love of learning at birth, and to engage parents and their babies in this process,” said QPL President & CEO Dennis M. Walcott. 
NEW ON ULC'S MEMBER KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE
San José Public Library
Calgary Public Library
UPCOMING MEMBER EVENTS
ULC Development Professionals
Member Group Call
September 8 | 3-4 p.m. ET
ULC Communications and Marketing Leaders
Member Group Call
September 22 | Noon-1 p.m. ET
NOW TRENDING ON SOCIAL
Enoch Pratt Free Library

Baltimore is betting on a new type of first responder: librarians from Enoch Pratt Free Library. After a devastating shooting, officials will train city employees — and residents — in alleviating grief and trauma. The work starts this summer at the library.