Saskatoon public library workers return to the picket line fighting for fair wages and safe workplaces

CUPE 2669, the union representing Saskatoon public library workers, are back on the picket line today fighting for fair wages and safety measures to keep library workers and members of the public safe. Today's job action is the second full-day strike with a full withdrawal of services resulting in the closure of all Saskatoon libraries.

"We're back on the picket line because the employer is refusing to provide wage increases for all library workers that will help them keep up with the rising cost-of-living," said Paige Yellowlees, communications coordinator for CUPE 2669. "After a generational cost-of-living crisis, we will not accept piecemeal wage offers that don't provide fair wages for our members across the board."

The employer bargaining committee made a verbal offer to CUPE 2669 in mediation on November 7. The subsequent formal offer issued on November 10 was different from what was discussed in mediation and did not go far enough to improve safety provisions or wages for library workers and has been rejected. The employer may deny sick workers' pay and not honour existing medical leaves.

"It's in everyone's interest to make libraries safer. It's good for workers, good for members of the public, and good for our public library system overall," added Yellowlees. "We love our jobs and want to get back to serving our communities with pride. But we cannot and will not accept less than we deserve."

CUPE 2669 represents approximately 270 public library workers at nine Saskatoon public library locations.