UW Libraries staff authorize strike

If a tentative agreement is not in reach at the next bargaining session, workers could strike as soon as Monday

SEATTLE, WA (May 5, 2026) — More than three months after their previous collective bargaining agreement expired, University of Washington Libraries and Press employees have voted by 94.2% to authorize a one-day strike, an escalation of direct actions workers have taken in recent months as they fight for a new contract.

“I voted to strike because UW owes its workers raises that at least keep up with inflation,” said Laura Dimmit-Smyth, Fine Arts and Data Librarian at UW Bothell. “My colleagues across all 3 campuses, and at UW Press, deserve to be able to live in the communities we serve without taking a second job to make ends meet.”

During negotiations for their previous contract, workers walked out on a one-day strike. When management didn’t improve contract terms, workers authorized an indefinite strike, ultimately reaching a tentative agreement just hours before the strike deadline. Three years later, and Libraries and Press workers are once again preparing to possibly hit the strike line if UW management doesn’t get serious about outstanding issues at the bargaining table — namely, a serious mismatch between the boss’ wage offer and the actual cost of living in the Puget Sound.

“People are feeling frustrated,” said Tricia Schroeder, president of SEIU 925. “A central issue throughout bargaining has been the UW’s refusal to acknowledge the high cost of living and adjust their wage proposals accordingly.”

SEIU 925 reports that many workers can’t afford their student loan payments and rely on food stamps to cover grocery costs, despite working at one of the country’s most prestigious research universities.

“Our work is critical to the University of Washington’s mission. But with the cost of living expected to increase 3% annually, and with the UW’s consistent refusal to offer us living wages, working here is becoming unsustainable,” said Jason Sokoloff, head librarian at the UW Foster Business Library. “At this rate, a greater number of librarians and professional staff will increasingly need to work second jobs, rely on government assistance, relocate, or leave the field and the UW entirely.”

Friday is the last scheduled date for contract negotiations with university administration, per SEIU 925. If the bargaining team doesn’t believe a tentative agreement is within reach, UW Libraries and Press employees could hit the picket line for a one-day strike as soon as Monday.