Frederick County Library Workers Join AFSCME Maryland Council 3 Union

Frederick County Library Workers Join Union Movement

FREDERICK, Md. – A significant step has been taken by library workers in Maryland as 200 employees from the Frederick County Public Library System have successfully joined AFSCME Maryland Council 3. This development marks an important milestone for these workers, who seek to enhance their workplace conditions and benefits.

On November 19, an arbitrator confirmed that the Frederick County Library Workers United (FCLWU) successfully secured majority support to unite with Council 3. This union now represents a diverse group of library professionals including librarians, library associates, technicians, and circulation staff.

The momentum to unionize began earlier this year, with the formal petition for unionization filed on November 4. Members of FCLWU are advocating for better wages, a participatory role in decision-making, transparent communication channels, increased job security, career advancement opportunities, and measures to address staffing and retention challenges.

Deana Greenberg, a circulation clerk, expressed her enthusiasm for the union's certification, stating, "Now that our union is certified, I’m excited to work together to make FCPL even better while protecting what’s already making it a great place to work." She emphasized the need for library jobs to offer financial sustainability.

Veteran library technician Susan Kloc, with two decades of experience at the Frederick County Public Library, remarked on the talent loss due to inadequate pay and limited growth opportunities. "While I’ve cherished my time here, it’s also been frustrating to see talented co-workers leave because of low pay and a lack of opportunities to grow," she noted.

Librarian Emily Spangler and Library Associate Sarah Weishampel also shared their optimism about the union's potential to improve their professional environment and community service. Spangler, drawing on her previous experience as an AFSCME shop steward, expressed pride in her colleagues’ collective support. Weishampel added, "I want FCPL to be somewhere all employees can flourish and grow, and where we can have sustainable careers for many years to come."

Patrick Moran, president of Council 3 and an AFSCME vice president, warmly welcomed the new members, underscoring the work ahead. "We are thrilled that the library workers at the Frederick County Public Library System have won their union. Now, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to the bargaining table," he stated.

This unionization effort places Frederick County Public Library workers alongside their counterparts in the Anne Arundel County Public Library, the Howard County Public Library System, and the Enoch Pratt Free Library, who have all recently organized under Council 3.

AFSCME’s national Cultural Workers United initiative continues to support workers across various cultural institutions, with more than 50,000 workers having secured union representation, demonstrating the campaign's impact.