A tentative Ajax library agreement has averted a strike that could have closed all branches at the start of the week.
Ajax Public Library and CUPE Local 3565 reached the deal early Monday, September 21, after more than 12 hours of bargaining the previous day. The union represents 74 full- and part-time library employees.
Library service expected to continue
The library said the proposed agreement includes wage increases, improvements to time away from work and benefits, and added flexibility for management. Chief Librarian and Executive Officer Sarah Vaisler said the proposal contains gains for both sides and that the library expects service to remain uninterrupted.
The agreement still requires ratification. CUPE said members are scheduled to vote on Thursday, September 24, and that it will release more details if the deal is approved.
Deal follows rejection of earlier offer
The settlement followed an employer-requested vote in which workers rejected an earlier proposal. The union had objected to what it described as a two-tier contract and said the new bargaining round was made possible by strong member and community support.
Until the ratification vote is complete, the agreement remains tentative. Residents should continue to use the library’s current branch and program information for any service updates.
