In February 2020, the Boston Public Library Professional Staff Association affiliated with the Massachusetts Library Staff Association, Local 04928 of the American Federation of Teachers. Maty, a teen outreach librarian for the Boston Public Library, became president of the BPL-PSA in the fall of 2021, and continued the work of bringing a formerly independent union into the AFT fold. During their tenure as president, Maty successfully settled a contract that had been outstanding for four years with grace and thoughtfulness. In the words of their colleagues, “Maty handled a number of issues and crisis with a combination of shear hard work and determination. By making the necessary space for members to contribute and feel valued, Maty encouraged members to step up and engage in the work. When the BPL-PSA were also faced by a series of ‘anti-mask’ disruptions in February of 2022 at branches of the BPL, we organized a “Fill the Library with Love” rally at the BPL Central Library. Maty was the media spokesperson for the rally, providing clear and thoughtful commentary on the threats faced by patrons and library workers.” Congratulations Maty!
