University of California, Librarians union agree on new contract

The University of California agreed to a new contract with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) today ( Oct. 1) for 354 librarians across the UC system's 10 universities and six academic health centers.

The agreement was reached after 21 bargaining sessions over 11 months between the two parties. The new contract expires on Jan. 1, 2029.

Major components of the new contract include:  

• Wage increases: During the contract's first year, the salary scales for represented and non-represented librarians will be reviewed and aligned. After that, salaries will increase annually by 3.5 percent, 3.5 percent, 3 percent, and 3 percent. Librarians will also receive a $2,000 one-time payment upon ratification of the contract.

• Professional Development: Each librarian will be entitled to a minimum of $1,250 annually for professional development.

• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging: Positive contributions to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging made by librarians can be recognized through the merit and promotion process.

• Flexible Work Arrangement: New language that expands upon, clarifies and makes consistent, flexible work arrangements, including remote work across the University.

"This contract demonstrates our commitment to fair labor practices and a collaborative relationship with our librarians," said Matt Teaford, Executive Director of Systemwide Labor Relations. "We believe in the power of collaboration and compromise and value open and honest negotiations where all parties contribute meaningful ideas and work together to find common ground. We respect the essential role labor unions play in furthering the missions of the University."

AFT has two bargaining agreements with the University of California; the union also represents 5,361 non-Academic Senate lecturers who provide vital instructional services at UC campuses and medical centers.

For more information about the LX bargaining unit and UC's unions: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/resources/employment-policies-contracts/bargaining-units/

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