This Week at ULC
Newsletter | September 8, 2021
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT RESOURCES
FCC Opens Second ECF Application Filing Window
The FCC has opened 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 >

IMLS ARPA Spotlight: South Carolina State Library
The Institute of Museum and Library Services recently interviewed chief officers of State Library Administrative Agencies to discuss their response to the pandemic and their use of IMLS ARPA funds distributed to states. Learn more from Leesa Aiken, Director of South Carolina’s State Library, about how the state is focusing on utilizing ARPA funds to support digital inclusion. Click here to read the interview.

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
Alexandria Goes Fine Free
Alexandria Library

Alexandria Library has joined libraries from across North America in eliminating fines for overdue items and increasing access to library materials. In a recent library e-newsletter, it was noted that "the inability to pay overdue fines hinders the ability of patrons to borrow materials that support their educational, vocational and entertainment needs." Visit ULC's interactive Fine Free Map to learn more about how libraries are reducing access barriers.
Mandel Mobile Library
Delivering Digital Services to Communities in Need
Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach

Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach’s new Wi-Fi enabled minivan is traveling to the north and south sections of the city, bringing connectivity and assistance to families in need. Patrons can access on-site broadband, borrow laptops and Wi-Fi hotspots and receive homework help and job assistance three days a week at local parks.
MDPLS Autism Friendly Partner
Pictured left to right: Ivan Deveaux, UM-NSU CARD; MDPLS Library Director Ray Baker, Christina Rodriguez, UM-NSU CARD; UM-NSU CARD Executive Director Dr. Michael Alessandri; Miami-Dade County District 7 Commissioner Raquel Regalado
Recognized as an Autism Friendly Partner
Miami-Dade Public Library System

MDPLS has been recognized as an Autism Friendly Partner by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD). The library is the first county department ever to receive this special designation. Nearly all MDPLS employees have completed specialized training and the library has also created custom social narratives for each of its 49 branches with input from UM-NSU CARD. “I am so appreciative of the work and dedication of our Miami-Dade Public Library employees in this achievement that will make a difference in the lives of neurodiverse individuals and those with autism spectrum disorder,” said Library Director Ray Baker.
SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION
LA County Library
Maximizing Technology for Programming During the Pandemic
LA County Library
In response to the pandemic, LA County Library created a multi-division working group to develop a new engagement strategy, delivering virtual programs systemwide. The Virtual Programming Leadership Team (VPLT) helped the library navigate the pandemic and continue integral programming to customers when stay-at-home orders were issued. The VPLT leveraged communication platforms to develop a strategy for implementing and marketing programs, including a new YouTube channel, recently-acquired Webex tools and Facebook Live.
CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT: GALE
Gale High School Program
Launching a New Accredited Online High School Program to Public Libraries
Gale, a Cengage Company
Gale, a Cengage Company, recently announced the launch of Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School, a new online accredited diploma completion program available to public libraries. Adults can obtain their high school diploma online and develop tools to succeed in college and/or the workplace. “As a trusted partner to public libraries, Gale understands the importance of access to education, particularly for underserved and at-risk populations,” said Paul Gazzolo, senior vice president and general manager at Gale.
FEATURED RESOURCES ON ULC'S MEMBER KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE
Explore new resources in the ULC Member Knowledge Exchange
The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
Central Arkansas Library System
Cedar Rapids Public Library
CEO CALLS RESUME ON SEPTEMBER 9
We invite ULC Directors and CEOs to join us this Thursday, September 9, at 4 p.m. ET for our weekly Member Group Call.

During the call, we will hear from the director of IMLS, Crosby Kemper.
UPCOMING MEMBER EVENTS
ULC Development Professionals
Member Group Call
September 8 | 3-4 p.m. ET
ULC CEOs
Member Group Call
September 9 | 4-5 p.m. ET
ULC Deputy Directors
Member Group Call
September 15 | 3-4 p.m. ET
ULC Communications and Marketing Leaders
Member Group Call
September 22 | Noon-1 p.m. ET
APPLY TODAY FOR IMLS NATIONAL MEDAL
IMLS National Medal
Deadline to Apply: November 1
Institute of Museum and Library Services
The 2022 National Medal for Museum and Library Service nomination process is now open through Monday, November 1. Libraries that continue to engage their communities during the pandemic with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, and serve as community spaces for convening and conversation are encouraged to apply. “Libraries and museums have proven during the pandemic to be the indispensable beacons of culture and community,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper.
NOW TRENDING ON SOCIAL
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

A Charlotte Mecklenburg Library cardholder for most of her life, it was through the library that Anna Jean first discovered her love of storytelling.