Philadelphia Librarian Supports Federal Workers Facing Uncertainty

Philadelphia Librarian Fosters Community Support Amidst Federal Worker Uncertainty

In a time of heightened anxiety for federal employees due to potential job cuts by the new administration, a unique initiative emerged in Philadelphia to provide support and solidarity. Julie Zaebst, an adult and teen librarian at the Free Library of Philadelphia, spearheaded this effort after a conversation with her neighbor sparked an idea.

Zaebst, who is recognized as a winner of the Never Quit Service Award from AFSCME Local 2187 (Council 47), took swift action to organize a series of events aimed at helping federal workers connect and find mutual support. "It felt like a really urgent moment," Zaebst remarked. "There was such an appetite among federal workers to connect with each other and connect to resources."

According to Kate Eckert, the branch manager, Zaebst was quick to mobilize community involvement and promote the events. Eckert stated, “I was impressed with how quickly she promoted the event, and how she was able to get other neighborhood folks involved in the program very quickly.”

Zaebst emphasizes the library's importance as a safe and validating space, especially for individuals like herself who have faced personal struggles. “It’s just so important to have a place to go, I think, where you feel validated as your whole self, where you know adults care about you, and where there’s some consistency of what you can expect,” she explained.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by AFSCME members to counteract the administration's attempts to undermine federal employees. Alongside legal actions, the union is confronting influential figures and policies that threaten public services and aim to cut taxes for the wealthy. Through the Get Organized campaign, AFSCME is ensuring members are informed and united in defending the services they deliver.