Know Your Rights: The Just Cause Shield

Under our Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) Article 16.1, management must have “Just Cause” before issuing any discipline.

Use the following checklist to evaluate any disciplinary action or “Performance Improvement Plan” (PIP):

Test	Member Checklist
1. Notice	Did management give you a clear warning of the consequences of your conduct before taking action?
2. Reasonable Rules	Is the rule or expectation related to the safe and efficient operation of the library?
3. Investigation	Did the employer conduct a fair and objective investigation before deciding to discipline?
4. Proof	Did the investigation produce substantial evidence or “receipts” (emails, logs, timestamps)?
5. Equal Treatment	Are the rules and penalties applied even-handedly to all employees?
6. Proportionality	Does the “punishment fit the crime” given your record and years of service?

Tips for Success: Protecting Your Career

The best defense is a proactive offense. Use these daily habits to protect your professional record:

Maintain a Personal Work Log: Keep a daily record of tasks, project updates, and management instructions on a personal device.
The Follow-Up Email: If a supervisor gives you a verbal instruction that contradicts a previous plan, send a “Clarification Email” immediately.
Save Everything: Keep copies of your performance appraisals and positive feedback. Management cannot ignore a record of success.