Gov. Brown Signs AB-583, Closes Privatization Loophole

AB-583 closes loopholes in the Library Privatization Bill, which protects libraries from being privatized and having services reduced.

 The Privatization Beast can’t get into our libraries!

What Happened?  

AB-438 was an attempt to prevent the privatization of libraries. It was an important partnership between public libraries and SEIU 721. Unfortunately, a loophole allowed private companies to skirt privatization laws and take control of our libraries.

AB-583 closes the loopholes and keeps the public in control of public libraries. Without the support of SEIU 721 library workers, this bill would not have passed.

“We must keep our libraries public because privatization hurts jobs, workers and, ultimately, it hurts the communities they serve.”  
 

–Betty Marlow, Library Assistant IV, East Rancho Dominguez Library