On Monday, American Library Association (ALA) workers announced their intent to form a union with AFSCME
Council 31.
In yet another exciting organizing drive from Illinois Cultural Workers United-AFSCME, the news came via an open letter signed by 40 staff members. Under the banner American Library Association Workers United/AFSCME (ALAWU), signatories cited recent layoffs, heavy workloads, benefits reductions, financial crises, salary disparities and lack of decision-making transparency as core motivators for launching the effort.
“Experienced staff are the backbone of this association. A union helps protect the knowledge, continuity, and dedication that make our work possible,” said David Connolly, a member of the organizing committee who has worked at ALA for 23 years. “No one should have to choose between serving the profession with a sharp focus on advancing ALA’s mission and protecting their own well-being. This union creates the stable, predictable workplace environment that allows staff to do both.”
AFL-CIO Daily Brief