Urban Libraries Council

The 2024 Innovations Initiative application cycle from the Urban Libraries Council is NOW OPEN! Submit your entries now to share your library’s out-of-the-box thinking and successful programs that have revolutionized the library field. We can’t wait to see your submissions. All active ULC member libraries can participate in the 2024 Innovations Initiative.   The deadline for submissions is Monday, August 9, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Entries should feature library programs, initiatives and transformative ideas that launched between January 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, or achieved significant breakthroughs during that time. Submit Now: https://lnkd.in/dKEpaAWR

There are just over 2 WEEKS LEFT to submit your entries to ULC's 2024 Innovations Initiative! Submit your entries now to share your library’s out-of-the-box thinking and successful programs that have revolutionized the library field. Here's what you need to know: How “new” do innovations need to be?  Entries should feature library programs, initiatives and transformative ideas that launched between January 1, 2023 and May 31, 2024, or achieved significant breakthroughs during that time. You may submit an application for a previous Innovation entry if there were large-scale changes or outcomes achieved in the past 12 months. What does my library get if we are selected? Honorees will not only receive a physical award and be featured in ULC-led media opportunities, but the Top Innovators in each category will receive one complimentary registration to the 2024 ULC Annual Leadership Forum, taking place in Philadelphia, PA, from October 23 to 25. Submit Now: https://lnkd.in/eq4qZTZS

A new exhibit at Multnomah County Library - Central is telling the story of Portland’s punk beginnings. Pioneers of Portland Punk 1977-1984, located at the Collins Gallery on the top floor of Multnomah County Library’s downtown Central Library branch, tells the story of Portland punk’s first flashes via thoughtfully organized displays of fanzines, vinyl pressings, reproductions of old show flyers and more. Learn More: https://lnkd.in/e9cFpaCh

In a recent op-ed for the Dayton Daily News, Dayton Metro Library Executive Director Jeffrey Trzeciak underscores the crucial role libraries play in preserving the freedom to read and our commitment to curating collections that meet the diverse needs of our communities. These insights emphasize the importance of standing firm in our mission and values, especially in these challenging times. "While the fight for the freedom to read has been going on for centuries, it has intensified in recent years," wrote Trzeciak. "Dayton Metro Library stands firm in our mission to preserve the freedom to read and will continue to curate a collection that meets the needs of everyone in our community." Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/e6XdbqH3

In partnership with Barbershop Books, Inc., ULC’s Barbershop Books Pilot for Libraries supported a small cohort of libraries in 2023 and 2024 to provide reading opportunities to Black boys directly in barbershops in their local communities. As part of this partnership, the Columbus Metropolitan Library hosted a Hair Resource Fair this spring for children and families. The afternoon offered several opportunities for attendees to learn more about the library, participate in storytimes and meet local authors, get free haircuts from CML’s barber partner The BarberZone Barber Studio, and interact with community organizations. Read more about Columbus Metropolitan's event and the pilot program below.

Are you ready to lead your public library into a future defined by earned trust, continuous growth and visionary leadership? Whether you are a library executive, deputy director, communications chief, head of HR, fundraiser, or other senior leader, we know these three factors are key to addressing crucial aspects of organizational change and growth for urban public libraries. Tackle how these issues impact your work and more at the 2024 Urban Libraries Council Annual Leadership Forum in Philadelphia, PA, from October 23 to 25. Follow the link to review the event agenda, learn more about featured speakers, and register using the early-bird rate for ULC members. https://lnkd.in/e_sQBVyM 

💥 Registration for ULC's annual conference for senior library professionals will open on Monday! 💥 The 2024 Urban Libraries Council Annual Leadership Forum will gather library leaders from across the United States and Canada and take place in Philadelphia, PA, from October 23 to 25. Register here on Monday: https://lnkd.in/e_sQBVyM

There are just 3 weeks left to submit your entries to ULC's 2024 Innovations Initiative! Submit your entries now to share your library’s out-of-the-box thinking and successful programs that have revolutionized the library field. We can’t wait to see your submissions. The deadline for submissions is Monday, August 9, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Honorees will not only receive a physical award and be featured in ULC-led media opportunities, but the Top Innovators in each category will receive one complimentary registration to the 2024 ULC Annual Leadership Forum, taking place in Philadelphia, PA, from October 23 to 25. Submit now: https://lnkd.in/eq4qZTZS

The Dallas Public Library hosted hundreds of members of Dallas’ “ton” last Saturday at its inaugural Bridgerton Ball. Thanks to the popularity of novel-turned-Netflix-show Bridgerton, the sixth floor of the J. Erik. Jonsson Central Library was transformed into a Regency-era experience. Lords and ladies from across North Texas gathered in 1800s-inspired attire to eat, drink, dance and be merry. Read more and see photos from the event: https://lnkd.in/etk4ARSs

Join our friends at the National Book Foundation, Presenter of the National Book Awards to celebrate 75 years of the National Book Awards and participate in the Summer Reading Adventure! The Reading Adventure is a free, prize-filled extravaganza for adults to discover, or re-discover, the joy of reading. Watch a book-to-screen adaptation, re-read a favorite childhood book, swap a favorite book with a friend, and more. Submit your Summer Reading Adventure card by mail or online by August 31, 2024 to be entered to win books, hats, ice cream, reusable water bottles, and other prizes. Participants that complete all of the activities will be entered to win the grand prize of airfare, hotel, and two tickets to the 75th National Book Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Visit nationalbook.org/adventure to learn more, and tag @nationalbookfoundation when you share your bookish adventures for a chance to be featured on the Foundation’s Instagram. Join the Summer Reading Adventure today!