LOC Workers Beat Unionbusting Efforts

Library of Congress (LOC) workers won a major victory last week when a federal abitrator
rejected a grievance filed by management against union officials of the LC Professional Guild, AFSCME Local 2910. In his decision, Arbitrator James M. Harkless found union officials properly reported their use of representational time and dismissed management's attempts to place Local 2910 officers and stewards on leave-without-pay or forced leave. "This grievance has created a chill in the air at the Library of Congress," said Local 2910 President Saul Schniderman. "The threat of loss of pay called into question the institution's commitment to the values of participation and free expression. That no Guild representative was placed on leave-without-pay is a great relief to everyone," Schniderman said. Workers began a six-month letter-writing campaign in February to counter the unionbusting tactics. The campaign was a great success with 700 people throughout Metro DC and the country sending letters faxes, and emails in support the LOC workers.