WALDORF, Md. — Charles County library workers have overwhelmingly ratified their first-ever collective bargaining agreement, approving the new contract in a vote that concluded yesterday.
The historic agreement marks a major milestone for employees of the Charles County Public Library, establishing improved wages, working conditions and workplace protections and giving library workers a stronger voice on the job.
The ratification comes after negotiations that took far longer than necessary, following Charles County’s hiring of the high-priced management-side law firm Jackson Lewis to represent the County in bargaining.
“This should have been a straightforward process focused on reaching a fair agreement for the hardworking people who serve Charles County residents every day,” said Gino Renne, president of UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO. “Instead, the County chose to bring in an expensive union-avoidance law firm, which helped drag out negotiations and delayed workers from reaching their first contract.”
Despite the delays, library workers remained united throughout the bargaining process and ultimately secured an agreement that members overwhelmingly supported.
“A 90 percent yes vote sends a very clear message,” Renne said. “Our members stood together, stayed engaged and made their voices heard. They should be incredibly proud of what they accomplished.”
“Library workers provide essential services to this community,” Renne said. “They connect residents with information, technology, educational opportunities and critical public resources. This contract recognizes that the people who make those services possible deserve respect, fair treatment and a seat at the table.”
UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO represents public-sector workers throughout Maryland, including those working for Montgomery County and Prince George’s County Libraries.