Call to End Staffing Agencies in Library Sector

Stockholm's public library system has been utilizing staffing agencies since 2010 to manage short-term absenteeism among its employees. The labor union DIK is now advocating for a complete cessation of this practice.

Union President Anna Troberg expressed concerns regarding the unpredictability faced by staff, stating that not knowing their work schedule from one day to the next leads to significant stress and insecurity. She emphasized that this situation is unsustainable for both library personnel and the libraries themselves.

Historically, Stockholm's public library maintained its own pool of substitutes, but according to Assistant City Librarian Jenny Poncin, managing that system proved to be challenging and resource-intensive. The turnover rate among substitutes was high, and the administrative burden was considerable. Currently, the costs associated with substitutes account for approximately two percent of the library's personnel budget, with these staff members primarily filling in for sick leave.

Poncin stated that engaging a staffing agency is more cost-effective for the library. She highlighted that the agency's hiring process upholds the same competency standards as the library's previous recruitment practices. Furthermore, she assured that all temporary staff undergo thorough training and orientation before beginning their roles, and that the library maintains high standards for their qualifications.

Despite the library's assertions, DIK disagrees with the effectiveness of employing staffing agencies. Troberg argues that opting for these external solutions instead of providing favorable working conditions for employees is detrimental to all stakeholders involved. She articulated her belief that insecure employment does not represent a viable future for robust and effective library services.

The debate surrounding the use of staffing agencies in the library sector raises important questions about employment practices and the quality of service provided to the public. As discussions continue, the balance between cost efficiency and employee welfare remains a critical point of contention.