More than 300 PCS members at the British Library in London are striking over their poverty wages for two weeks until 9 November, reports Pete Webster

British Library management’s offer of a well below inflation wage settlement (for the second year running), their lack of support over a data breach of staff details in 2023 and a refusal to address the current untenable working patterns inspired union members to a 98% turnout on a ballot with a 75% yes vote for strike action.

While the British Library initially proposed a pay award of 2%, with some to receive as little as 1.6%, it has since increased the offer to 2.4%, which is still way below inflation, citing rising costs across the board including energy bills and building materials.

The strike began on Monday with a 200-strong crowd of pickets and supporters sending a clear message that this strike is solid and well supported. The picket has also received support from local workers and with many honks from passing traffic. On Wednesday, Jeremy Corbyn came down to join it too and gave a well-received speech.

Pickets on the Midland Road staff entrance are daily from 8am and all supporters welcome. There will also be an evening rally with speakers at 6pm on Thursday 6 November.

PCS Branch Chair, Nick, explained the impact of the cost-of-living crisis was having on his members. He said, ‘We have quite a few colleagues here who are forced to take a second job in the evenings in order to make ends meet each month,’ and, ‘One of our key demands is for a fully-implemented pay restoration to make up for the shortfalls in recent years.’

Nick explained that if there is no immediate movement by management to resolve the dispute amicably, the mandate for industrial action stretches well into the new year and this branch was determined to use it if necessary.

Confidence in management’s capabilities to run a national – and international – prestigious institution are low following a cyber-attack in 2023 that has meant that on-line access has only been restored in a limited way, while many research services remain unavailable. The same is true of the bosses imminent restructuring plan that may well add a further grievance to the mix.

There will also be rallies with speakers on 1 and 4 November from 11am to noon.Share messages of solidarity on social media using the hashtag #BritishLibraryOnStrike and strike fund donations here.