Unite set to strike

Library workers in Greenwich, England are set for a four-day strike starting on Friday.  The workers are members of Unite and are taking this action in opposition to city council's decision to privatize the library system.  Unite is also planning a second action on May 11.

AFSCME launches library worker campaign

In honor of Library Workers Day (which I must admit that I have never heard of until now) on April 10, AFSCME has launched an online campaign to draw attention to recent attacks on public libraries across the country by proponents of austerity measures.  Stating that "library workers will not be shushed," AFSCME Local 1215 (Chicago) president Carl Sorrell draws attention to the importance of an active, organized work force and ties with community members in defending library services.  To check out the campaign's open letter and to sign a petition, go here.

Now is the obligatory section wherein I remind everyone that petitions are great and all, but they are no substitute for organizing in the workplace and the community!  So after you sign that petition, get involved with your union and take some action.  And if you don't have a union, there's a good place to start!

Budget cuts at Vancouver Public Library

The news is coming fast and furious from Canada and it ain't good.  Vancouver Public Library is the latest public system to fall victim to massive budget cuts.  CUPE 391 (the union that represents VPL workers) has made available the reduction in working hours that will affect library workers and effectively keep many of them below the level at which benefits are provided.

Ironically, the cuts will take effect on May Day, International Workers' Day.  While VPL management attacks their workforce, they are simultaneously hoping to fill another director's position that pays $120,000/year (over one-fifth of the amount that they are hoping to save with the cuts).

From the site:

"The Library Board no longer talks of valuing our staff in the Value Statements.  The Board does talk of wise use of resources.  In the February meeting the Union offered several money saving options that would have delivered the necessary cuts.  We know for a fact that:

• Several retirements have been announced
• Branch head positions can be brought back into scope through current review.  Savings of over $100,000
• Vancouver Shared Services Review regarding Security is happening this year; savings of over $200,000 plus benefits

But here is the kicker, - Savings of $120,000 + benefits (40,000?) for a directors position.  This position has sat empty for almost a year and, oddly, there is a sudden rush to fill it around the implementation of the budget cuts.  We say the library didn’t need the position."

Okanagan Public Library workers vote for strike

In the third Canadian item today, workers at the Okanagan Public Library have voted for a strike with a 96% majority.  The workers, who are represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), say that the library administration has stalled on contract negotiations and forced this move.

Nova Scotia school librarians laid-off

In more news from Canada, public school librarians with the Chignecto-Central regional school board in Nova Scotia will be laid-off as of June 30.  This move will put 41 librarians out of work, all of whom are represented by the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU).  The move is the result of budget cuts but came as a surprise to the workers and the union.  However, the NSGEU is vowing to fight with the assistance of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE).

Regina Public Library workers may strike

Just when you thought that labor peace had come to Canadian libraries, workers at the Regina Public Library have voted for a strike mandate.  The workers are represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and passed the vote with a 82% majority.  The issues at stake are longer work hours on Sundays with less pay and less benefits for new and part-time employees.

Toronto strike comes to an end

TPLWU workers are back on the job as of today after voting to end their 11-day strike and return to work.  From the story:

"Under the new four-year collective agreement, full-time and part-time workers will be protected from layoffs after they earn 11 years of seniority. All 2,300 workers will get a raise, though their wages will not keep up with the current rate of inflation."

However, it was not a total victory as many of the union's demands for security were not fully met.  But congratulations to our comrades in Toronto on your successful strike that was an inspiration to many!