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Kent District Library

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Poor Compensation - Branch Librarian Kent District Library Employee Review

1.0
Apr 17, 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The system generally has good funding.

Cons

Employees are not adequately compensated. When I started, I had 10 years of experience and was offered $22.97 an hour. I was not allowed to negotiate my salary and therefore, I made less than a new librarian that started last year and potentially less than a promoted ABL who does not have a degree. Regardless of not being able to negotiate my salary, the starting wage for librarians is unacceptable; especially for one of the largest systems in the state. I also had issue with the collective bargaining agreement. The percentage increase in wages is very poor, particularly when the "raise" is also the cost of living increase. They should be getting both of those things, period. A cost of living increase is based on inflation. A raise is based on another year of a job well done and another year of experience under your belt. They are not the same thing. On top of that, with a cash bonus instead of a % raise, the ultimate effect is, with inflation, a reduction in pay. You get one year of bonus but you're now x% behind on keeping up with inflation. When you finally get a % raise, it isn't compounded with the previous year's raise because that year wasn't actually a raise.

Explore other reviews about Kent District Library

5.0
Feb 1, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

You will always feel a sense of purpose.

Cons

Not a lot of opportunities for advancement.

1
4.0
Jun 10, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Supportive work environment between coworkers, great patrons, ability to explore niches, excellent 2-SLGBTQ+ environment

Cons

Getting supplies and approval for new programs requires too many hurdles. One person objecting to something often overrides many who do like an idea and is often based on personal feelings about the person - not on the idea presented. Union support is not as strong as it should be. Very little room for growth as they hire outside for upper levels more than from promotion from within.

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