TrueCrime writes “Update on Providence Public Library – Community Joins Workers in Fight!
By Library Defense reporter TrueCrime
Calling themselves Library Defense (http://www.provlibdefense.org), an organized group of Providence Public Library workers has been battling the administration’s plans to drastically cut staff and services from the library system. [See above mentioned website for background info] After making their presence known by widely circulating letters, statements, and media stories, the group of workers turned to the community for support. Through decentralized networking, word of mouth, and a great deal of Internet organizing, Library Defense has exploded the issues across the city of Providence and beyond. Now that the workers’ group has built up mass support from the public, they are ready to carry the struggle further. The administration however has dug their heels in and refuses to be moved – there is still a long road ahead. Below are some updates on the situation:
TrueCrime writes “Update on Providence Public Library – Community Joins Workers in Fight!
By Library Defense reporter TrueCrime
Calling themselves Library Defense (http://www.provlibdefense.org), an organized group of Providence Public Library workers has been battling the administration’s plans to drastically cut staff and services from the library system. [See above mentioned website for background info] After making their presence known by widely circulating letters, statements, and media stories, the group of workers turned to the community for support. Through decentralized networking, word of mouth, and a great deal of Internet organizing, Library Defense has exploded the issues across the city of Providence and beyond. Now that the workers’ group has built up mass support from the public, they are ready to carry the struggle further. The administration however has dug their heels in and refuses to be moved – there is still a long road ahead. Below are some updates on the situation:
Severance:
On July 1st, just before the 3 day holiday weekend, the administration offered the majority of library workers in the Central Library and all the clerks in the branches severance buyouts. Although the employees saw these letters for what they really were, many people were scared they were on the chopping block anyhow and took the severance. Many others were heard saying that if the 3rd floor wanted to get rid of them, they’d have to fire them. Staff was given 9 days to accept the severance instead of the usual workplace average of around 21 days. When the deadline rolled around, the administration would not announce how many people took the severance. The estimate is around 15-20. The whole ordeal has been devastating to library workers, as friends and co-workers have been wrestling with these decisions. Many of the workers leaving have pledged to continue helping Library Defense and their fellow staff members fight even though they will have to sign waivers that they will not attempt to harm PPL.
Letters of support:
Letters have continued to pour into the Library Defense website. Mitch Freedman, former President of ALA, sent a letter of support that has been posted there. Thirty-three former library workers from the Providence Public Library sent a letter to the Providence Journal and Library Defense, which is posted there. The letter takes issue (backed up with facts & figures) with many of the administrations reasons given for the sudden and drastic changes. Among other strong words it has for the administration the letter says: “The library has always had a loyal staff with unmatched expertise. The callous disregard shown by this administration for these dedicated employees leaves us shocked and very angry�
Petition:
A petition, asking for the administration to reconsider their plan and demanding a public meeting where questions can be asked, has continued to circulate. There have been close to 2000 signatures in a little over a week. The administration still refuses to meet with the public.
Protest:
Over 200 people showed up for a protest on Friday July 9th outside the Central Library. There were patrons, staff, parents with kids, local union members, anarchists, activists, the media, and library lovers of all ages. Signs were held, speeches were given, and lots of noise was made. The administration’s 3rd floor seemed dark and vacant. Pictures can be seen here: http://homepage.mac.com/sempai/PhotoAlbum25.html and other pictures as well as local media coverage of protest can be seen at the Library Defense website.
Central Library Changes:
Already areas are being prepared and things moved around. The administration doesn’t announce to the staff that this is happening though – one day they might walk into work and one of the rooms of the Central Library could be different. According to the administration, the majority of the work that must occur to change entrances and create a “popular branch� within the Central Library will begin in September.
Public Website:
An online discussion group was just formed for the public. It is a place where the people of Providence (and beyond) can brainstorm creative resistance to the current administration’s plans. The group is open to all and un-moderated. Join here:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saveppl
Involuntary Layoffs (or: “You’re Fired!�):
According to administration plan, now that they know how many employees have taken their buyout, they will determine how many more they will have to fire. This process will begin this week, but nobody knows when the announcements will come. The vague time of “middle of July� was the only hint given.
Giving Up:
Hell No!”
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