Abstract: Disclosed are modified latexes having improved drying speed, comprising a polymer having one or more pendant side chains, such side chain comprising the product of the reaction between a mono- or poly-functional group capable of reacting with an acid or hydroxyl unit, and such units present on the precursor polymer. Such modified latexes are storage-stable one-pack compositions useful alone or in combination in coating applications, or as adhesives, sizing agents, composites, impregnants, castings, caulks, and non-woven binders. Also disclosed is a method for providing a crosslinked protective coating on a substrate, comprising the steps of: applying a coating of the composition of the present invention to the substrate; and allowing the composition to cure at ambient temperature or greater, or applying radiation to the composition to effect curing.