Jefferson County Public Library workers are first to form union under Colorado's collective bargaining law

[Omaha Steve]

https://www.afscme.org/blog/jefferson-county-public-library-workers-are-first-to-form-union-under-colorados-collective-bargaining-law

By AFSCME Staff · Thursday, March 14, 2024

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. – Jefferson County Public Library workers made Colorado history last week by becoming the first group to organize a union under the state’s new collective bargaining law for county employees. The workers voted to form a union with AFSCME Council 18.

The 350 library workers won their union election on March 7 with 81% voting yes; the vote tally was 213-62. Workers have been contending with a number of issues, including low wages and workplace safety. Safety in particular is a concern, as libraries have become ground zero in culture wars and default social service agencies.  

Workers were elated about winning a voice on the job and becoming the first to organize under the collective bargaining law, which our union fought for. 

“Library workers care so deeply about our communities. Now, with a union, we have a seat at the table to advocate for improvements so our libraries can meet the needs of our patrons and so that library jobs provide a living wage and reflect the dedication and importance of the work we do,” said Christopher Lovejoy, an adult services librarian at the Arvada branch.

FULL story at link above.