AFSCME’s Saunders: National Library Workers Day comes on the heels of new organizing across the country
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement recognizing National Library Workers Day on April 9, 2024:
“Libraries are the heart of our communities. They are one of the only spaces where people of all backgrounds can freely learn a new skill, get lost in a book, use the internet or simply find time for themselves. But a steady stream of crises – from the opioid epidemic and COVID-19 to extremist book bans and staffing shortages – have put immense pressure on library workers. They are fighting back, using their voice on the job to keep these essential community centers open.“AFSCME members at the Daniel Boone Regional Library system started off 2024 by winning a historic contract including dramatic pay raises, 12 weeks of paid family leave and other benefits that will help recruit more qualified individuals to this honorable career path. And in Colorado, Jefferson County Public Library workers made history with AFSCME by organizing the first union under the state's new collective bargaining law for county employees.“Worker momentum within our nation’s libraries continues to grow, and with community support behind them, there are no signs of it slowing down. This National Library Workers Day, we honor the workers who foster safe spaces for people to learn, grow and create.”