Library workers insist they are trying to achieve what they call a fair collective agreement.
Okanagan Regional Library van drivers are off the job until Saturday, and until further notice, CUPE members will not be collecting money for facility rentals or photocopier fees.
“Okanagan library workers encourage the community to come and use the library’s many services and facilities, while we aren’t collecting fees we are remaining open to serve our community,” said Rose Jurkic, CUPE 1123 president.
CUPE workers have now been without a contract for 19 months.
In other parts of the province, Jurkic said, libraries are successfully settling collective agreements.
“Since 2009, nine libraries have ratified new collective agreements and all have done so without mediation, arbitration or strike action.”
“CUPE’s bargaining team is ready to get back to the table and negotiate. Modest wage improvements and extended benefit improvements remain our top priorities, strike action will continue until the library board can present us with a fair and reasonable offer.”
CUPE represents more than 150 library workers at 16 branches in the Okanagan.
