Academic Librarians at McMaster

November 23rd update: the members of the McMaster University Academic Librarians’ Association have voted in favour of ratifying the tentative agreement. 

The collective agreement governing the working conditions, appointments, salary structure, and other matters related to the work of academic librarians at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, expired on July 31st, 2015. 

Between June and November, the McMaster University Academic Librarians’ Association (MUALA), which represents twenty-four librarians, negotiated with the university administration with regard to their salary structure, participation in academic governance, terms of appointment, promotions, and performance evaluations.

In the last few weeks of bargaining, a provincial conciliator was present at the discussions and MUALA requested that the conciliator file a “No Board” report. As a result, a possible job action may take place on November 20th. In the latest press release, President Laura Banfield stated, 

We are very frustrated in the Employer’s aggressive bargaining tactics and their disregard for the crucial role our members play in the Universities’ teaching and research success. Our members very much want to be working with students and supporting faculty research rather than walking the picket line.

MUALA has received considerable support from numerous colleagues across the country: Ryerson Faculty Association, Canadian Association of Professional Academic Librarians, The Faculty Association of Simon Fraser University and many more.