Statement by Lambeth UNISON on the occupation of Carnegie library against its closure
Month: March 2016
Latest on libraries campaign from Friends of Lambeth Libraries
The Friends of Lambeth Library have issued their latest newsletter with important dates coming up.
Reply to Jane Edbrooke – yes, trade unions should be political!
Ruth Cashman, striking library worker and joint Branch Secretary, replies to Cabinet member Jane Edbrooke who accuses Lambeth UNISON of being ” engaged in a political campaign alongside libraries groups” Continue reading
Report: Lambeth libraries shut for two days by strike action to save the local service
Lambeth UNISON members organised a rock solid strike across the borough on 22 and 23 March to protest against the closure of four local libraries by Lambeth Council. Pictures and videos below! Continue reading
Lambeth libraries strike on 22-23 March – 85% of council members support them!
Lambeth Library workers on strike 22 and 23 March
Consultative ballot at 85% yes vote to extend strike action across the council workforce Continue reading
Consultative ballot launched in support of the ongoing libraries dispute
Lambeth UNISON has launched a consultative ballot across the council work force today.
The ballot asks council members whether they are willing to take action in support of the ongoing libraries dispute.
Dan Jeffrey, vice chair of Lambeth UNISON said; “We have launched a ballot today across the Council workforce to take industrial action in support of our colleagues who are fighting to save the library service. Other than for a national issue, this is the first time the branch has taken a Council wide ballot for industrial action in many years. This shows how passionately our branch feels about saving the library service which is such a crucial resource to the local community. It is a service that is not only a vital educational resource for many people, but also a facility and space that provides a multitude of services for the community. The libraries provide a life line for many people whether this be getting assistance in filling in housing benefit forms, being a refuge for those who have suffered domestic violence, providing translation services, or providing a space and play groups where parents can bring their children to. I have never seen such a passionate response from the workforce and local community in 20 years of trade union activism. The councillors need to listen to their community and change course.”
UNISON activists have put up posters in the major council buildings, and leafleted every desk. There will be more stalls and floorwalking later this week to get the vote out. If you are a member of UNISON in the council and have not got your email then please contact us and we will send you a link.
