Urban Librarians Unite stands in solidarity with the Asian community and unequivocally condemns anti-Asian statements, violence, xenophobia, and racism in libraries and in our communities. A year ago, we signed onto the APALA pledge, and we reaffirm our commitment to standing against hate. Asian Americans and the Asian diaspora are more than 12% of the … Continue reading ULU Statement in support of Asian Communities
Library Worker Vaccine Distribution Statement
Urban Librarians Unite is in support of the inclusion of all library workers in public libraries in state and local Phase 1b vaccine distribution plans. Including library workers will protect library staff and help minimize risks to library users and visitors. Libraries are community hubs that are still serving our communities throughout the pandemic, any delay in inoculating librarians and library workers will continue to expose our colleagues to unnecessary risk and delay the reopening of our treasured institutions.
NYC Library Budget Advocacy and You
It's a difficult time for library advocacy Physical library buildings are closed, local budgets are heavily impacted by a lack of revenue, and while the NYC Library budget is largely flat, the future is uncertain. As the Covid-19 pandemic drags on, continued revenue shortages may make libraries a tempting target for budget cuts which could … Continue reading NYC Library Budget Advocacy and You
Supporting The HALO Fund
ULU is matching donations to the EveryLibrary Help a Library Worker Out (HALO) Fund The COVID-19 crisis is having far reaching economic consequences for library workers across the country. The board of Urban Librarians Unite has authorized a one to one match up to $1200 and encourages you to support our colleagues who are experiencing … Continue reading Supporting The HALO Fund
NYC Library Closures and Covid-19
From the Board of Urban Librarians Unite,Urban Librarians Unite echoes the call made by Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer this afternoon: Brooklyn Public Library and Queens Public Library should follow the same plan of action as New York Public Library, and close all units until at least March 31st. We understand the vital role public libraries … Continue reading NYC Library Closures and Covid-19