Big Guy, Small Desk: A Struggle for Size-Friendly Workspaces

Being a large guy, trying to fit into a tiny workspace. That's exactly what William Martin, a 6-foot-2, 360-pound employee at the New York Public Library, faced. He's suing for a whopping $4. 6 million, claiming his bosses forced him to work at a desk too small for his size, causing anxiety and depression. His troubles began in 2021 when he was assigned to a first-floor desk with a 12-inch drop, making it "crampy" for his large frame. Martin's union stepped in, getting him reassigned to different desks. But in June 2023, a new assistant director allegedly started assigning him to the small desk again. Things went downhill when he complained, got a lawyer involved, and was later suspended for allegedly sleeping on the job. Martin says his assignment to the small desk was a form of bullying, and his mental health has been severely impacted. The library's spokesperson dismissed the case, stating they treat staff fairly. This case highlights the need for size-friendly workspaces and raises questions about workplace accommodation and bullying.