Volunteer Program

I. Purpose and Intent

Volunteers bring the library enthusiasm, energy, added talents, and a fresh perspective. They enhance, rather than replace adequate staffing. They enrich the library's offerings, rather than provide basic service. Volunteer service aids the library in making the best use of its fiscal resources and contributes to sound working relationships with other city departments, as well as with community groups and organizations. Volunteers are liaisons to the community and by their contribution are advocates for quality library service. The library and its volunteers work together for mutual satisfaction.

II. Program Guidelines

1. Volunteers work hours at the library when supervisors are readily available. The number of volunteers accepted is based on the amount of work and supervisory time available.
2. Volunteers must complete a Volunteer Application Form and will be interviewed. If there are no suitable volunteer opportunities, application forms will be kept on file for a period of six months. Applicants will be called if a project is identified which matches their interests or qualifications.
3. The library welcomes applicants who have completed sixth grade. Volunteers under 18 must have permission from a parent or guardian.
4. Volunteers who are family members of library staff may not be placed under the direct supervision of their family member.
5. Volunteers are not covered by city insurance, including Workman's Compensation.
6. Volunteers will provide references and submit to a criminal background check.
7. Volunteers are placed in positions best suited to their skills, interests and availability. We cannot guarantee a position for each potential volunteer.
8. Selection is based on qualifications of applicants, the needs of the library at any given time, and the volunteer's ability to commit to a consistent schedule of hours.
9. Volunteers will be familiar with and agree to abide by the library's Confidentiality of Library Records Policy, as well as all other library rules and policies.
10. Volunteers will contact their supervisor before the assigned shift if they will be absent or tardy.
11. The library has the responsibility to provide training, supervision and recognition to the volunteer.
12. The Library Director will coordinate publicity and recognition of volunteers for the program. The Assistant Director and Service Coordinators will carry out interviewing, selection, placement, scheduling and training of volunteers.
    

III. Volunteer Opportunities

The following is a sample list of volunteer opportunities currently available at the library. Each position would involve a minimum of 2 hours per week unless otherwise noted. We ask that volunteers agree to a six month commitment for projects that are on-going.

• Adopt a Shelf – keep materials in order
• Assist in the Children's Department with Summer Reading Program (8 to 12 weeks)
• Process materials – put on covers, labels, etc.
• Deliver materials to Homebound (4 hours per month)
• Make photocopies
• Assist with computer data entry
• Computer training – assist training the public on the use of library computers.
• Genealogy – help search newspapers for birth announcements, obituaries, etc.
• Local history – assist in computer entry for local history indexes
• Gardener (seasonal)
• Bookstore - help sort materials and/or staff the store during open hours

Forms are available at the Circulation Desk or submit your application online.