Wednesday 18 November 2021

Due to protected industrial action being taken by some Geelong Regional Libraries’ staff, some of our libraries and services may be impacted on Thursday 18 November from 8am until library close time.

At this stage, the known impact to our services include:

• Some branches may be closed or partially closed
• Opening hours may be reduced depending staff availability
• Events and programs scheduled for Thursday 18 November may be cancelled or postponed. (If you have booked into an impacted event you will be contacted)
• Meeting room bookings may be impacted; hirers will be contacted if this is the case.

Return chutes will operate as normal across the network.

A Click & Collect service may operate at impacted libraries.

While we are reluctant to close our libraries, we will be required to do so if the safety of our staff or visitors will be comprised due to insufficient staff on site.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide full details of the impact at this stage. Please keep an eye on our social media and the news section of our website for updates or call (03) 4201 0600 on Thursday during business hours for advice.

Thank you for your patience and understanding, we regret any inconvenience caused.

Why is this happening?

Throughout 2020 and 2021, Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GRLC) has worked with the Australian Services Union (ASU) and its representatives on negotiating a new Enterprise Agreement for the Corporation. Throughout the bargaining period, the GRLC has negotiated in good faith and made a number of compromises, and we look forward to a positive resolution.

The GRLC respects the right of ASU Members to take protected industrial action.

Our priority is to ensure that our service to library members and the community continues safely. We are committed to providing safe spaces for library visitors and staff. We are working hard to minimise the disruption to our community.