Height Of Discomfort: 6-Foot-2 Employee Files $4.6 Mn Lawsuit Over 'Inadequate Desk Accommodations'
Martin claims the desk's staggered design, with a 30-cm drop, was inappropriate for someone of his build
A 6-foot-2, 163-kg employee of the New York Public Library (NYPL) has filed a $4.6 million (Rs 38.82 crore) lawsuit, alleging workplace discrimination and harassment stemming from being assigned a desk that he claims is unsuitable for his stature. William Martin, a library information assistant at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, says the ordeal has caused him severe anxiety and depression.
Martin's troubles began in October 2021 when he was assigned to a cramped service desk on the first floor of the Fifth Avenue library in Midtown Manhattan. He claims the desk's staggered design, with a 30-cm drop, was inappropriate for someone of his build.
"All I sought was just a service desk with the appropriate accommodation given my physical attributes," Martin said in the lawsuit filed in Brooklyn Federal Court. He alleges his requests for reasonable accommodations were ignored or dismissed, according to the New York Post.
Martin's union initially intervened, securing him assignments at other service desks. However, tensions reportedly flared again in June 2023 when a new assistant director allegedly required him to return to the same cramped desk. Martin claims the directive was a form of intimidation, with the director increasing these assignments to assert authority.
The situation escalated when Martin faced allegations of sleeping on the job, leading to his suspension. He has denied the claims, describing them as false and retaliatory. In response, he requested a transfer and medical leave, citing the toll on his mental health.
"I tremble at the thought of returning to work," Martin said in his filing, highlighting the psychological impact of his experiences.
The New York Public Library has rejected Martin’s allegations, labeling the lawsuit as "without merit". A library spokesperson said, "We take employee accommodations and concerns with utmost seriousness, and are dedicated to treating our staff across the Library with fairness and respect". The case is now pending before the Brooklyn Federal Court.
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