Workers at 25 Fraser Valley library branches avoid lockout with tentative deal: employer
Posted March 5, 2026 11:28 am.
Last Updated March 5, 2026 12:40 pm.
The CEO of a network of public libraries in the Fraser Valley says it will not lock out its over 300 unionized employees this week after reaching a tentative deal.
On Tuesday, the Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL) reportedly issued a 72-hour lockout notice to CUPE 1698 members who work in library service roles across the region.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 1130 NEWSRADIO VANCOUVER LIVE!But in an update Thursday, FVRL CEO Scott Hargrove said the “last resort” has been avoided.
“We are extremely pleased to share the good news that we have reached a tentative agreement with the Union this morning for a renewed collective agreement, subject to ratification by the membership and by FVRL’s Board,” said Hargrove.
He says the union has tentatively accepted a four-year term with a total wage increase of 13 per cent over four years, and agreed the parties will not have to renegotiate the entire collective agreement in a matter of months.
The union says it has been a “challenging chapter” but members are once again free to focus on continuing their vital work.
“We’re relieved we’ve been able reach a tentative agreement so that families, newcomers, seniors, students and community members across the Fraser Valley can continue to access services without any interruption,” said Laurie Dyck, President of CUPE 1698.
Editor’s note: A previous version of this article stated that the parties had agreed to renegotiate the entire collective agreement in a matter of months. In fact, they tentatively agreed to terms to avoid renegotiation in a matter of months.
