You want your patrons to continue to enthusiastically utilize your library, but you also want your library to be there next time they stop by. That’s the dilemma.
The Labour Relations Board has put an end to the controversial “food for fines” waiver program at Greater Victoria Public Library branches. This action was introduced as part of an effort by members of Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 410 to protest conditions at the library. As of today, library staff cannot waive any fines. Fines are a significant part of the library budget, said GVPL chairman Chris Graham, representing between $500,000 and $600,000 a year for a library system that is constantly trying to make its budget go as far as it can. Story from Canada.com.
Victoria Public, job action
For more details, please see the following article: “Victoria Strike Escalates:Pay equity at centre of four-month dispute.” by Tom Sandborn
http://thetyee.ca/News/2008/01/19/LibraryStrike/
and check the Union blog at:
http://cupe410.ca/wordpress/
Committee of Concerned Librarians, CCL
Canadian Librarians advocating for library collections, services and staff!