Unit 17 Librarians and allies turned out to the “sunshine” events on September 19 and 26 to kick off the bargaining campaign. Librarians let the UCOP negotiators know they’re motivated and ready to secure a great new contract. Librarians from across the UC shared their current working conditions and discussed several issues they’ll be fighting for in bargaining, including: 

• Improved compensation (particularly considering the high cost of living in California)
• Protections against increased workload due to chronic understaffing of the libraries
• Shoring up academic freedom for librarians
• Strengthening protections against discrimination
• Continued access to flexible work arrangements
• Expanding access to professional development funding

It was heartening to see lecturers and others stand in solidarity with librarians during the sunshine events. The table team is preparing for the first formal bargaining session, and there will be more opportunities in the near future to show up to support U17 librarians during this process.