Toronto Public Library workers have given their union a strong strike mandate in ongoing contract negotiations with the Toronto Public Library. The workers, represented by CUPE 4948, held a strike vote over the weekend with a historic turnout, where over 96 per cent voted in favour of authorizing the union to take strike action if necessary.
Brandon Haynes, president of CUPE 4948, says the results send a clear message to the employer.
“This record-breaking turnout shows just how strongly library workers feel about the need for a fair contract,” said Haynes. “We are committed to reaching an agreement that respects the vital services library workers provide to Toronto communities, but this vote makes it clear that our members are prepared to take action if necessary.”
CUPE 4948 and the Toronto Public Library have multiple bargaining dates scheduled throughout March. The union remains focused on securing a contract that includes inflation-adjusted wage increases, solutions to chronic understaffing and workplace violence, improved working conditions, and stronger benefits.
CUPE 4948 represents approximately 2,300 Toronto Public Library full-time and part-time workers, including librarians, library assistants, pages, and other frontline staff who provide essential public services at 100 library branches across the city.
Their previous contract expired on December 31, 2024.