Library workers reach a deal, ending 10 day strike

Toronto's public libraries will re-open Friday after striking workers approved a new deal with the organization's board.

While job security provisions will be clawed back for employees with less than 11 years' on the job, CUPE Local 4948 said it had ensured there would be no reductions in benefits and full-time jobs won't be converted to part-time. In fact, a handful of full-time jobs will be created over the course of the contract.

Negotiators for both sides reached the settlement on Wednesday. Library workers, who have been on strike since March 19, voted on Thursday.

The union announced the result at 9 p.m.

At a meeting Thursday evening, meanwhile, the board also ratified the deal.

Libraries became a key flashpoint as the city struggled to reign in its deficit last year. Proposals to shutter branches and scale back hours were met with a large public backlash.

The board approved a budget that shed 100 jobs.