Important Message Re: Internal Library Efficiencies Review

To All Local 4948 Library Workers

It appears at the same time that the union was being briefed on what some of the “efficiencies” are resulting from the library’s internal review, managers were out in the workplace telling our members that there was going to be big changes coming their way.  Here is a list of what the union was told:

·         Sorters are going to be installed at FV and NYCL to handle the high volume of returns at the circulation desks

·         The shipping hub at Front St. is to be closed and moved and consolidated at Ellesmere

·         Sorters will also most likely be installed at Ellesmere to streamline the shipping process as well

·         The HLSW and the HLSE offices will be closed and HLS will now operate out of one location at NYCL

·         The Leading to Reading offices may be consolidated down from 4 locations to 3

The union has not participated in these efficiency reviews in any way, nor,  is the union in agreement with this direction.
 
This is solely a management directive. We have no further details.

A report will be going to the Library Board (tbd), and then the City of Toronto Executive Committee (July 28^th), and then to City Council for approval by the end of September 2011.

We are also awaiting the report from the KPMG consultants on the service delivery review.  A report will be released sometime after July 21^st but before July 28^th.  (We expect the library board meeting to take place during that timeframe as well).

We have no information as to what will be contained in that report.  However, we expect library closures to be announced. 

We do have language in our collective agreement (see Article 18 – Redeployment) to address such changes to our workplaces and workforce and we will work very hard to provide as much support to our members as possible.

These are very uncertain times for all of us.  Please continue to watch the blog, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, watch for information posted on your union bulletin boards and keep up to date with your email accounts.

Please contact a member of the TPLWU Local 4948 Executive Board or contact us at the union office if you have any questions.

Maureen O'Reilly, President Local 4948