LIBRARY REDUCED TO SHADOW OF FORMER SELF

Restructuring of the Saskatoon Public Libraries (SPL) should be more of a concern to city councillors, but they’ve remained silent on the issue. Perhaps the lack of a gender lens (analysis) on municipal programs and policies causes council’s blind faith in the library’s CEO and board. And while the issue is not just gender, it can’t be ignored that 100 per cent of the staff layoffs (23 in 2017) at the Saskatoon Public Library are women.

The library is undergoing what its CEO refers to as restructuring (also called a “community led service model” but it forgot to consult the community). Books are disappearing, staff are being laid off, and the quality of the library learning experience deteriorating.

Some of the women laid off were specialists and have worked there for decades. The CEO is saying they can now re-apply to work at the library, but under the category of general associates (think Walmart), including lower pay and a six-month probation.

The restructuring at SPL is linked to austerity.

Overwhelmingly these cuts or “restructuring ” practices affect public services and benefits.

Public sector layoffs frequently lead to precarious employment with limited income security. Women have achieved gains in equality through work in the public sector, so layoffs and decreased salaries (and benefits) leave them more vulnerable.

Restructuring might result in a modern building, but without quality service and optimal learning experiences, few will benefit.

City council and library users should be alarmed.

Cindy Hanson, Saskatoon