“Over 50% of the library workforce is now part-time, with little or no benefits,” said Maureen O'Reilly, a member of the Local 416 library negotiating committee. “It is obvious that library management does not believe in full employment, and unless that attitude changes, it is likely we will have a strike.”
A shutdown would end all library services, including children's summer programs, public access to computer terminals, and home delivery programs for seniors, according to the union.
In a June 28 statement, City Librarian Josephine Bryant said, “The library is committed to reaching a negotiated settlement, and will continue to bargain full-time until the strike deadline and beyond, if necessary.”
Posted July 8, 2005.