Cleveland Public Library Workers Vote to Strike Over Wages and Healthcare
Unionized workers at the Cleveland Public Library (CPL), represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) District 1199, have voted to go on strike starting Monday. This decision follows the rejection of the library administration's final contract proposal after nearly a year of negotiations. The union is advocating for livable wages, affordable retirement security, and safe working conditions, while also raising concerns about significant changes to employees' healthcare benefits. A central point of contention is the proposed 0% wage increase in the third year of the contract, which the union contrasts with the over $300,000 annual salary of CPL Director Felton Thomas. The union argues that Director Thomas's salary exceeds those of Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, highlighting a perceived disparity in priorities. Despite expressing reluctance to strike, the union stated that a walkout was necessary to secure a fair contract. The CPL administration has acknowledged ... 
