Activate: Mobilising culture workers for strike action

In October, PCS members at the British Library, one of the most esteemed cultural institutions in the country, walked out for two weeks, leading to the cancellation of several library events, significant disruptions to daily operations, and the exit of the library’s CEO.

Living in one of the most expensive cities in the world, most members struggle to make ends meet from month to month. Many suffer from health problems because of low pay; even more work second jobs and take out loans to pay their bills and meet their housing costs.

Unsurprisingly then, they were furious when British Library management offered them, for the second consecutive year, an insulting below-inflation pay rise.

“Staff were genuinely beyond upset about the pay offer,” says branch treasurer Mariann, who found that members were “already on edge” and “ready to act against injustice” even before the recent ballot was opened.

“But,” Mariann tells Activate, “ongoing workplace issues — being understaffed, underpaid, and lacking the proper technology to do their jobs — only added to the sense that the organisation didn’t value them.”

For weeks and months, these activists prepared for strike action. Speaking to Activate, PCS activists at the library agreed on the reason why they’ve had such organising successes: teamwork.

They hold weekly branch executive committee (BEC) meetings where reps raise members’ concerns to the committee. To ensure the union is visible across the organisation, the BEC has an office where “members can drop by or leave a note for us.”

Relationships rooted in trust

Branch chair Nick tells Activate that the BEC prioritises building relationships rooted in trust, whether through WhatsApp, face-to-face conversations, posters on noticeboards, leafleting, or newsletters.

Although most members work on site and were targeted for face-to-face conversations, hybrid meetings and electronic communications are important because many have flexible working contracts.

“One cannot underestimate word of mouth because we often have people approach us by saying: ‘My friend recommended I come and talk with you’,” Nick says. “The PCS branch at the British Library has a reputation for getting things sorted as we do not allow our members to be mistreated, and we aren’t shy in letting the employer know that.”

To make sure that the strike action is successful and that they are prepared for future actions and ballots, the branch has focused on ensuring that members’ details are regularly updated online and that the pickets are loud, colourful and engaging.

“We have very creative members who make eye-catching signs,” Nick says, “and we are also very grateful for all our guest speakers and public support.”

For Mariann, the focus now turns to ensuring “our branch stays visible and active, not only during industrial action but all year round”. This means maintaining visibility in the workplace, listening to members' concerns, and, as she puts it, “celebrating small wins so people can see that being part of PCS really matters”.

One of the biggest lessons she has learned is that you can “never underestimate the power of honest and consistent communications.” Another is the need for visibility in the workplace.

“Be present, be approachable, and make time for members, even when it’s just to listen,” she adds. “Every conversation counts, and every case matters, no matter how small it seems.”