FREDERICK, Md. – A total of 200 additional library workers in the Old Line State can build power at work through AFSCME Maryland Council 3.
On Nov. 19, an arbitrator certified that the workers at the Frederick County Public Library System demonstrated majority support with Council 3. Frederick County Library Workers United (FCLWU) represents 200 librarians, library associates, library technicians, circulation staff, and others.
Workers began organizing their union earlier this year and filed their union petition on Nov. 4. Members of FCLWU are committed to fighting for fair wages, a voice in the decision-making process, more transparent communication, increased job protection, paths to promotion, adequate staffing, and improved retention.
“Now that our union is certified, I’m excited to work together to make FCPL even better while protecting what’s already making it a great place to work,” said Deana Greenberg, a circulation clerk. “I’ve been at FCPL for over seven years, and I love working here. But it shouldn’t be a job that is only open to those who have a partner or other outside financial support. We should be able to afford to live in the community we serve.”
Susan Kloc, a library technician, is a 20-year employee of the Frederick County Public Library. Her frustration is with the flight of talent from her community.
“While I’ve cherished my time here, it’s also been frustrating to see talented co-workers leave because of low pay and a lack of opportunities to grow. I’m excited to be able to build a better library system together,” Kloc said.
Librarian Emily Spangler and Library Associate Sarah Weishampel both are excited that forming a union will improve their professional lives and help them better serve the community.
“When I previously worked at University of Maryland-College Park, I was an AFSCME shop steward and knew the value of my union and being able to stand in solidarity with my co-workers,” Spangler said. “I’m so proud of my many colleagues across FCPL who voiced their support for our union and got us to this moment.”
Weishampel said she’s “thrilled” at having a union in her workplace.
“I want FCPL to be somewhere all employees can flourish and grow, and where we can have sustainable careers for many years to come. I can’t wait to start the work of making that a reality,” she said.
Patrick Moran, president of Council 3 and an AFSCME vice president, welcomed the 200 new library workers to the union. He reminded them that serious work lies ahead.
“We are thrilled that the library workers at the Frederick County Public Library System have won their union,” he said. “Now, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to the bargaining table.”
The Frederick County Public Library workers join their counterparts at the Anne Arundel County Public Library, the Howard County Public Library System, and the Enoch Pratt Free Library in unionizing through Council 3 in the last few years.
AFSCME’s national Cultural Workers United campaign helps workers secure fair pay, job security, and a real voice in decisions that shape their work. Fifty thousand workers at museums, libraries, zoos and other cultural institutions have won a voice on the job by forming a union with AFSCME — more than any other union.