Union workers in the Timberland Regional Library system won the battle to save 36 staff positions earlier this year. A levy lid lift to prevent service disruptions is next on their docket.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 10/5/2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Rowan Herbst Minino, , (425) 312-5995
Tumwater, WA — In April, Timberland Library workers gained enough public support for library leadership to rescind 36 layoff notices to staff. Now, AFSCME Local 3758, representing library workers, is rallying public support for a levy lid lift on the Nov. 3 ballot. Brent Caron, president of Local 3758 said without the levy, libraries will have to reduce open and staffed hours across the district.
“Patrons would likely see further reduced branch hours,” Caron said. “The collection would continue to diminish, causing wait times for holds to continue to get longer.”
The library levy rate on the ballot is $0.35 per $1000 of property value. Levy funding makes up 96% of the library’s budget, and Timberland has not had a full levy rate since 2001.
“The library has done more with less for 25 years, but it is no longer possible to keep up with rising costs and continue meeting the needs of our communities,” Korinne Bisig, a member of Local 3758, said.
Aside from ramping up their social media presence, Local 3758 members have attended events by the Yes for Libraries campaign, created a collection of stories from community members who love their libraries, maintained a weekly newsletter with updates about the levy, and collaborated with local performers and artists to promote the campaign. Most recently, Robin Winwood, an Olympia-based illustrator, was commissioned for a “Library Workers make Libraries Work!” illustration.
Local 3758 and AFSCME Council 2 encourage a “YES” vote for libraries this November.
“A small investment in your library system yields high fiscal and social returns for the community at large,” Rachel Saelid, vice president of Local 3758 said.
Library Workers and Council 2 Staff are available for interviews. Please contact Rowan Herbst Minino at or (425) 312-5995 to schedule.
The Washington State Council of County and City Employees, AFSCME Council 2, represents more than 16,000 employees who provide services to the citizens of Washington state. It is a democratic union providing a real voice for its members through active participation and professional representation.