Chicago Public Library hours reduced

Many library branches in Chicago will now be closed on Mondays, which is a victory for librarians organized with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees.  The city initially wanted the library system to reduce hours on most Monday and Friday mornings but the unionized librarians opposed that because it would have entailed working two half-days, thus requiring library staff to work an extra day to make up for lost wages.  The affected branches will remain open on Mondays during school holidays.