Penn Libraries Staff Win Union Vote, Join National Union Movement

Penn Libraries Staff Successfully Unionize, Joining Broader Workforce Movement

Philadelphia – In a significant development for labor representation, the staff of Penn Libraries have voted to unionize under AFSCME DC 47 Local 590 Penn Libraries United. The unionization effort culminated in a favorable vote this fall, with a tally of 40 in support and 27 against, following an election overseen by the National Labor Relations Board.

This new union includes around 90 professionals such as librarians, curators, archivists, and developers. They join the existing Local 590, which has represented Penn Libraries support staff since 1969. This move is part of a larger wave of unionization efforts at the University of Pennsylvania, where since 2021, more than 5,000 employees have successfully unionized and commenced negotiations for initial contracts.

The unionization momentum at the university is noteworthy, with resident physicians and fellows in the Penn Health System, represented by CIR/SEIU, having secured their first contract in September 2024. This agreement promises pay raises between 24-28% and enhances parental leave, showcasing efforts for improved employment conditions. Such initiatives are part of the broader Coalition of Workers of Penn, in collaboration with the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, aiming to secure better compensation and work environments at Philadelphia's largest private employer.

The Penn Libraries' staff unionization is also part of a national trend among cultural workers under the AFSCME’s Cultural Workers United (CWU) program. This program includes workers from libraries, museums, and zoos who are advocating for fair wages and workplace transparency.

AFSCME stands out as the leading union for cultural workers, representing over 10,000 museum staff across 100 institutions and more than 25,000 library employees at 275 libraries nationwide. These numbers underscore the significant role AFSCME plays in advocating for cultural sector employees in both public and private sectors.