Library Workers To Take Leave Without Pay

In the spirit of Christmas, everyone is giving. Spokane Public Libraries avoided layoffs Wednesday, reaching an agreement with the union that has all employees taking 96 hours of leave without pay in 1996.

The agreement unanimously approved by the trustees covers all the library’s 110 full-time staff members, including those not in the union.

“Every library employee is included in this, including the director,” said Interim Director Aubrey George.

A tight budget had library officials scrambling to find $177,000 it didn’t have to balance next year’s budget.

About $5.8 million of next year’s $6.5 million budget will come from the city’s general fund. The balance comes from fees and fines.

The city gave the library $200,000 more for 1996 than this year, but dwindling reserves mean next year’s budget is down $300,000 from 1995.

The one-year agreement calls for:

The library closing on three holidays previously not observed. Those include President’s Day, Columbus Day and Veteran’s Day.

The library closing from Aug. 26 through Aug. 31, a “traditionally slow week,” said Human Resources Director Monica Fox.

All employees scheduling an additional 32 hours of unpaid leave the same way they would a vacation.

“I think this is a real fine step,” said trustee Ned Barnes.

“I have nothing but respect for (the union) in its negotiations.”

“This was such a quality act,” said trustee Ron Miller.

, DataTimes