In 1984, staff members of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library felt the need to become an organized bargaining unit. Looking for more say in their jobs, better safety, increased job security and respect, the Association of Public Library Employees was organized. APLE was officially recognized to represent librarians and other professional staff in 1987.

APLE in 2003 joined the UAW along with the Toledo Association of Administrative Personnel (TAAP), which represents Toledo public school principals and other administrators and supervisors and professionals for the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA). 20 years of service says a great deal about our organization and our continuing service to our members.