Library Worker Empowerment
Learn concrete steps for creating and maintaining a supportive, productive work environment that supports well-being among library staff.
Written by an internationally recognized expert, this book is ideal for students seeking to undertake or currently undertaking a TBP, and PhD supervisors looking to better support TBP.
This book will prove an ideal reference for librarians and anyone interested in fostering a culture of kindness and well-being in professional settings.
Interest in unions and the real, day-to-day benefits they secure for employees is on the rise—including among library workers, who are beginning to realize that on their own they have little leverage. But with a union they have the power of numbers, and their working conditions are decided by a collectively negotiated agreement rather than by the malleable judgement of an individual administrator or library board. This handbook will equip readers with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary for organizing and maintaining a union at their library. Peppered throughout by illuminating stories from successful library union leaders and members, this book
- discusses why library workers need unions and explores some of the benefits that a collective bargaining agreement can assure, such as job security, increased salaries, codification of the rules for overtime pay and time off, and protection from harassment by patrons;
- explains why a contract won't limit employees' autonomy;
- walks readers through how to launch a union drive, including the basics of talking with co-workers, combating apathy and fear, and running a campaign;
- offers an overview of the steps involved in building a new union, from forming an organizing committee to getting recognition and setting up a governance structure;
- sketches out the key issues relating to contracts, the details of bargaining and negotiation, and arbitration;
- lays out approaches and strategies for dealing with supervisors and administrators in the context of your union work, including effective communication between labor and management, contract enforcement, and handling bad behavior such as unfair labor practices and retaliation;
- gives advice on pursuing changes in your workplace in a right-to-work state;
- explores the constructive roles that bosses can play to support the union efforts of the workers who organize them; and
- provides an Action Plan at the end of each chapter with suggested readings, questions for reflection, and activities designed to help deepen your knowledge, broaden your network, and practice important skills.
"While concise, this book is rich in ideas ... Recommended as an essential and practical resource for libraries to provide a healthy, sustainable workspace." — Library Journal
This powerful work of archival storytelling will inspire readers both inside and outside of the library field.
This hands-on resource shows library workers how to de-escalate difficult situations safely and effectively.
Complete with a plethora of customizable forms, templates, and tools that you can modify to suit your own needs, this book offers a roadmap for giving your learners the guidance and direction to take the lead in running their school library space and teaching their peers.
Plant a whole lot of joy at your library using this little book’s fun and inventive ideas!
"This is an essential book for reimagining the role of a competent, effective school librarian at a critical time of shrinking resources."
— VOYA
"Norlin’s writing is clear and down-to-earth ... This book provides useful guidance to librarians throughout their careers." — Booklist
"A comprehensive handbook that’s sure to grow even more relevant as time goes on.”
— Booklist
"It has a lot to offer all of us working toward meaningful, sincere, and long-lasting engagement with the communities in our catchment areas.” — International Journal of Information, Diversity, & Inclusion
