Powell’s Books and the union that represents most of the bookstore’s workers have reached a four-year contract that ends a contentious bargaining period. Contract negotiations started in February and included a one-day strike on Labor Day. In the end, management and workers represented by International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 5 agreed on a contract that includes wage and benefit increases. The contract includes an average wage increase of 10% in the first year and a new starting wage of $17 an hour for entry-level jobs, among other wage and benefit increases, according to the bookstore. The two sides previously agreed on proposals for health insurance deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums for health care. The contract takes effect on Jan. 1 and expires on March 31, 2028. Follow the link in our bio to read more. #powellsbooks #portland #books #read