Strike action meant to take place at libraries across Hackney tomorrow (Friday, January 20) has been suspended, Unison union announced.

This comes after what the union describes as “three days of very effective strikes” which saw five out of seven affected libraries close their doors on January 10, 12 and 16.

A spokesperson for Unison told the Gazette: “the employer has made some concessions that have been put to the members for review.

“The suspension is a gesture of goodwill in the spirit of negotiation to allow time for the members to be consulted.”

Hackney Unison are in dispute with the council over a restructuring plan which they say could see up to 44 workers lose their job.

Hackney library staff belonging to Unison union will strike again on February 1, 2 and 3 if the members refuse the council’s proposals.

Hackney Unison branch secretary Matthew Paul said: “These plans aren’t just about job losses.

“Cutting staff will make it harder to prevent or manage health and safety issues, not to mention will affect the quality of service overall.”