UPDATE: The future of the Boulder library workers’ union hangs in the balance following a pivotal board meeting on Tuesday night. Although union organizers presented their case to the Boulder Public Library District Board of Trustees, no decision was made regarding union recognition. A special meeting has been scheduled for December 2 to further discuss the matter.
During the meeting, board president Doug Hamilton stated, “We’re studying what it means for the library board,” signaling the trustees’ cautious approach to the unionization efforts. The room was packed with dozens of supporters, many donning striking green shirts representing the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
If recognized, this union will provide essential protections and resources for library staff. The board also entered an executive session for legal advice on the unionization process, underlining the complexity of the situation. A subcommittee, led by Hamilton and board member Tom Cosgrove, has been formed to specifically address union-related discussions.
The board’s primary agenda was the ongoing process of adopting its 2026 budget, with a public hearing set for November 18. If the trustees decide against recognizing the union, organizers are prepared to escalate the issue by seeking a vote from library workers.
Union organizers revealed that this effort has been in the works for over two years. They emphasize that the drive for unionization is not rooted in dissatisfaction but rather in a desire for job security and better support for employees.
“It’s crucial for us to have collective bargaining rights. A strong library has strong workers,” stated Michael Serrano, head custodian and a key organizer for the union. His comments highlight the belief that unionization will enhance public services at the Boulder Public Library District (BPLD).
Concerns surrounding worker safety have also emerged. Serrano shared a personal incident where he was hospitalized due to symptoms from meth exposure in the library’s bathrooms, a situation that has raised alarms about safety conditions. This incident has further fueled the urgency behind the unionization push.
The BPLD serves five locations, including the recently opened NoBo Library at 4500 13th St. and a new Gunbarrel branch set to open this Thursday. The board’s attention to the future of the library and its workers is critical, as the outcome of these discussions could have lasting implications for the community.
As the board prepares for the special meeting on December 2, all eyes will be on the decision-making process. The BPLD Board of Trustees will convene again on November 19 at 6 p.m. in the Canyon Meeting Room at the main branch. The resolution of this union effort is poised to significantly impact not only the workers but also the quality of services provided to the Boulder community.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
