Unionized staff at the Nelson Public Library have ratified a new three-year contract.
The deal was reached January 8 between CUPE Local 339, the library board, and the City of Nelson. The last contract expired December 31, 2012 and the new agreement runs through the end of 2015. Negotiations started last October.
The 18 library workers will see a two per cent wage hike retroactive to mid-2013 and additional increases for 2014 and 2015, resulting in an overall 5.1 per cent increase. The raise is consistent with the union's parent local for other city CUPE employees.
According to the city, the deal also provides benefit improvements while helping to reduce costs associated with sick leave.
The city has yet to come to terms on three other union contracts.