We need your help to save the libraries of Vermont State University. Please take 30 seconds right now to leave a message for your senators, and ask them to “keep the VTSU libraries open in their current form!”
This is an issue that may be decided by a razor-thin margin, and your senator may be the one that casts the deciding vote to keep the libraries open.
The Times Argus recently covered Saturday’s VSC Board of Trustees meeting in Montpelier, where, during the public comment portion of the meeting, Board members received a lot of blowback for the administration’s recent library decision. Pictured here is VSEA VSC Unit Chair Billie Neathawk delivering her remarks to the Board opposing the plan.
Community members questioned why those within the system would seek feedback and input from them on certain topics, like libraries, when that input is ignored. They urged the board to listen to them and their desire to keep books in libraries. They talked about the damage this announcement has already caused to recruitment efforts, noting the announcement was made at a critical time in recruitment.
&
Plainfield resident Glenda Bissex said while she had taught at Johnson previously, she was there to represent the community. Bissex said she was dismayed the sign-in sheet for the meeting asked the participant what institution they were part of and their title, as if the board did not want nor expect to hear from the community.
VSEA is encouraging members and retirees to support striking Goddard College employees, who called for the action last Friday after talks broke down on increasing workers’ wages. Members of the Goddard College Staff Union say college administrators want workers to give up their right to negotiate working conditions in exchange for a three-percent wage increase.
“VSEA stands with striking Goddard College workers in their fight for fair and competitive wages,” says VSEA Second Vice President Leslie Matthews. “The administration’s counter to give up negotiating rights is ludicrous and extreme, to say the least.” She adds, “VSEA will be helping these workers however we can.”