Tacoma libraries could remain closed into summer as temporary layoffs gut workforce
Tacoma Public Library (TPL) will temporarily lay off 65 percent of its workforce due to shutdowns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the library system announced.
TPL employs 127 people across eight branches and will lay off 85 effective May 4 through July 25.
All library branches have been closed to the public since March 14.
The large number of layoffs will impede TPL’s ability to swiftly re-open when Gov. Jay Inslee’s stay-home order is lifted, according to library director Kate Larsen.
“We do hope that we can move to some, likely limited, version of service before the end of summer,” Larsen said in an email to The News Tribune on Wednesday.
TPL was just beginning to recover and rebuild service programs lost after the 2011 recession when the coronavirus hit.
“These temporary layoffs are especially gut-wrenching knowing that Tacoma’s library services, and our organization’s ability to recover from COVID-19 related closures, will be significantly hampered as a result,” Larsen said in a press release.
In addition to the layoffs, most non-represented staff at the library, including Larsen, are taking a voluntary 11 percent pay cut. TPL employees with health care coverage will not lose it during the temporary layoff.
Remaining TPL staff will continue to provide essential services through online and streaming platforms. TPL is also offering storytimes and other services on YouTube and Facebook Live.
To address a growing need for access to computers and internet, TPL is using funds from its online fundraiser, Library Giving Day, to purchase Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebooks that can be loaned out.
TPL makes up 5 percent of the city of Tacoma’s general fund, which is facing a $40 million shortfall in 2020 from COVID-19 losses. Savings from temporary layoffs, In combination with one-time cost savings in the form of delayed or canceled library projects, is projected to contribute $1.25 million toward the deficit.
“The temporary layoff plan is designed to preserve income and benefits while allowing us to keep enough staff on hand to manage essential functions, plan for phased re-opening, and to meet new demands on service,” Larsen said in a press release.
This story was originally published April 30, 2020 at 10:32 AM.
