Striking librarians invite local families to storytime
Events aim to show ‘gratitude’ to supporters
Essex County library workers who have been on strike since June have invited families to join them at “storytime” events being held this week in several municipalities.
The workers, who are represented by Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 2974, are entering their third month on strike. All 14 branches of the Essex County Library have been closed since June 25.
The employees want to show their gratitude to the community for all the support they’ve received during the strike, said Lori Wightman, unit chair for CUPE 2974.
Two of the events that involve reading stories to children and singing songs have already been held — the first Saturday in Leamington and another on Tuesday in Harrow.
“All through the summer, our library supporters have been telling us how much they miss us and our libraries,” Wightman said. “We feel the same way, as well, and this is our small gesture to show our appreciation for our community’s ongoing support and let our little ones enjoy storytime outdoors before the summer is over.”
Another event is being held Wednesday in Tecumseh, in the pavilion at Optimist Park, starting at 10:30 a.m. On Thursday, the striking librarians will conduct storytime in Amherstburg, in the gazebo at Navy Yard Park, starting at 10 a.m.
There are 14 full-time and 34 parttime librarians on strike.
“Everyone is still pretty positive and supporting each other,” Wightman said. “Everyone remains determined, but frustrated with management and our elected officials.”
There have been no contract discussions between the two sides since mid-July.
More than 2,000 petition signatures have been gathered to date in support of the striking library workers, Wightman said. Those wishing to add their names can do so at any of the picket lines, she said.
The labour dispute began over a proposed change in sick time protocols. The union has filed a complaint of bad-faith bargaining with the Ontario Labour Relations Board.