Brisbane library staff shortages spark union concerns

Staffing levels at Brisbane City Council library facilities have decreased by approximately 20 per cent since 2021, despite significant population growth in the city. The Services Union, representing over half of the library workforce, reports that 92 per cent of staff find their workload unsustainable and 88 per cent have observed a decline in service quality.

Union secretary Neil Henderson stated that employees lack the necessary personnel to meet public expectations. Anonymous staff members reported issues including low morale, burnout, and abuse from the public.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner indicated that the administration is attempting to address the issue through multiple hiring rounds over the last year, with plans to recruit 15 additional librarians by year-end. However, Labor opposition leader Jared Cassidy criticized the administration, claiming the shortages represent a failure to support both employees and residents.