Saskatoon library workers approve tentative agreement

Saskatoon library workers have voted in favour of a tentative agreement for a new contract.

According to Canadian Union of Public Employees 2669 (CUPE), 80 per cent of the 270 library workers it represents voted in favour of the agreement with Saskatoon Public Libraries, which includes increased wages and better safety measures. The workers, who have been without a contract since the summer of 2023, voted in favour of strike action in June and participated in single-day strikes last month.

A tentative agreement was reached in September but was voted down by members.

According to the union, the latest agreement includes “significant increases to circulation associate wages bringing them closer to Regina Public Library compensation rates,” and improvements to sick leave.

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When it comes to security,  one of the main issues raised during the job action, the union said the tentative deal includes “improved protections against working alone” and would establish an ongoing joint safety advisory committee to study and recommend the best health and safety practices.

“We were prepared to fight for wage increases and health and safety provisions to keep us safe at work,” Paige Yellowless, communications co-ordinator for CUPE 2669, said in a statement.

“This new agreement is a step in the right direction to make libraries safe and welcoming environments for staff and members of the public.”

–with files from 650 CKOM’s Alex Brown