On March 3rd, the Toronto Public Libraries Workers’ Union (TPLWU or CUPE 4948), representing approximately 2,300 Toronto Public Library workers, announced that its members had voted 96% in favour of a strike in a record-breaking turnout.
The old and new collective agreements
CUPE 4948’s previous agreement was ratified in 2020 and lasted until December 31, 2024. It guaranteed their existing job-security provisions as well as secured paid leaves for trans-affirming care, as well as for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The agreement also won resources for workers’ health and safety and improved working conditions in libraries.
The Toronto Public Library Workers Union is now focused on bargaining for a new deal that “respects the vital services library workers provide to Toronto communities.” They stated that they are vying for a contract that addresses chronic understaffing, improves working conditions, adjusts wages to match inflation, strengthens worker benefits, and prevents workplace violence.
Staffless libraries and workplace violence
TPL workers have faced many different issues since their last collective agreement was ratified. Ever since 2019, staffless libraries have been introduced in Toronto, Hamilton, Essex County, and Kingston, threatening the job security of library workers all over Ontario. The staffless model is meant to increase the libraries’ hours of operation while cutting costs, but the removal of staff from the equation means fewer shifts for workers and fewer programs and services for the community. This also means there is nobody to ensure library users are safe or have their accessibility and inclusivity needs met. The TPLWU has uploaded a charmingly animated video that details many problems that might disturb users of a staffless library.
After an increase in intensity and frequency of incidents of workplace violence in libraries, the Canadian Urban Libraries Council (CULC) formed an ad-hoc Safety and Security Working Group to address the problem. However, CUPE believes their approach was good enough and that CULC’s new approach does not incorporate frontline library workers’ input. The CBC claims that the TPL experienced a 71% jump in safety and security incidents, including physical assaults, suspected overdoses, and thefts.
The union is seeking to find solutions to these problems, as well as chronic understaffing and other bread-and-butter issues.
What can the community do to help?
Toronto Public Libraries provide communities with access to knowledge and programs that “enrich lives, improve digital literacy, and help residents navigate the complexities of modern life.” That is precisely why it is important for Torontonians to stand up for TPL workers and make sure they have the best possible collective agreement—and that their jobs are not put at risk through the implementation of staffless libraries.
If readers want to support the Toronto Public Library workers, they can join the OurPublicLibrary movement to oppose attacks against Toronto libraries. Otherwise, readers are welcome to follow the TPLWU on Instagram (@local4948) and wait for a strike-specific call to action.
Did you like this article? Help us produce more like it by donating $1, $2, or $5. Donate
