Volunteer Information

Why should I volunteer?

Although volunteers do not earn money, time volunteering at the Library gives them:

  • Training and experience in the world of work.
  • A professional reference and job experience to list on their resume.
  • A behind-the-scenes look at library-related careers.
  • An opportunity to discuss their interests with people who may like similar things.
  • A chance to “give back” to the community.
  • Interesting experiences and the chance to meet kids and adults with similar interests.
  • They do not accrue fines for overdue library materials after volunteering at least 25 hours during a three month period and for each subsequent three-month period in which they volunteer a minimum of 25 hours.

 

What will be expected of me as a volunteer?

Volunteers are expected to put in a minimum of 25 hours over a period of 3 months.  Because the library treats volunteers as staff, it is vital that they commit to a regular work schedule and be at the library during those scheduled times. 

If a volunteer cannot work on his/her scheduled date/time it is expected that they will call other volunteers to try to find a substitute before notifying library staff. 

All other expectations will be covered during the required orientation session.

How Do I Get Started?

If you can donate 25 or more hours during a three month period, please complete the application form and return to the library.

Download, print, and return the Augusta Public Library Volunteer Application

Please be sure to include references, your signature, and the signature of your parent(s), if under 18.

If you or your references have any questions about the program, please contact library staff at 715-286-2070 or aulib@augustalibrary.org

What can I do as a volunteer?

Title: Summer Programming Page

Age: 12 and up

Responsibilities:  Assist in set up of weekly programs, may include, but not limited to cutting, gluing, sorting, gathering supplies, reading to groups, participation in skits or reader’s theaters performed for large group, counting/gathering reading/weekly logs, preparing weekly make-and-take packets, supervising weekly prizes—including book giveaways, setting up displays, preparing snacks, clean-up

Requirements:  This volunteer is interested in working with children both one-on-one and in large groups.  He/she should be comfortable in dealing with a minimum of five children at a time and be able to give concise directions for any given activity performed.

Dates/Times Needed:  Volunteer hours will primarily be needed during the scheduled summer programs.  Typically 30 minutes prior to and after any program would be expected.  Other hours may be expected to assist in preparing for programs—these hours would typically be needed in the week(s) prior to any given program.

 

Title: Storytime Page

Age: 12 and up

Responsibilities:  Gather, cut, glue, and organize activity supplies for weekly projects.  Create/display decorations/props.  Gather books on future themes.  Prepare space for storytimes.

Requirements: This volunteer should be able to handle on-line subject searches in both the library catalog and internet craft sites, needs to be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds at one time, and is able to perform craft duties neatly and efficiently.

Dates/Times Needed:  Hours will primarily be needed during storytime sessions (September-December and January-May) Because responsibilities are mainly prep work, and not actual storytimes, preferred hours would include afternoons or evenings.

 

Title: Technical Page

Age: 15 and up

Responsibilities:  Assist to create/post e-newsletter, book discussion podcast, social media updates, book talks/critiques, and cleaning discs

Requirements:  This volunteer needs to have a working knowledge of responsibilities listed above.  While some training will be given, volunteer will be working mainly unsupervised.  Needs to have a working knowledge of the English language and spelling and be able to take direction from library staff.  Must be comfortable giving reader’s advisory.

Dates/Times Needed:  Updates would be done mainly on an as-needed basis, not less than once a month.  Most of work could be done either at library or home computer, although a weekly progress report would be required.

 

Title: Library Page

Age: 15 and up

Responsibilities:  Processing materials, organizing/shelving materials, assist with patron tech questions, oversee use of gaming system(refer issues to regular staff as needed), set up of projector, screen and sound system for programs, assist with displays, organize/up keep of book sale items, search for missing items, assist in collecting paging list items, light housekeeping as needed

Requirements:  This volunteer will need to understand and perform routine library procedures; will be expected to sort efficiently in alphabetic or numerical order, and to develop a working understanding of the Dewey Decimal and Call Number system. An ability to communicate effectively with staff and public is a must.  Must be comfortable giving reader’s advisory.

Dates/Times Needed:  Regular hours would be required, preferably two or more hours at a time.

 

Title:  Home Delivery

Age:  18 and up

Responsibilities:  Select materials for individual homebound clients based on his/her reading interests; picks up and delivers materials to the client at a prearranged time; picks up materials at a prearranged time or renews them; keeps the clients library card number and information confidential; keeps in contact with the homebound client(s)

Requirements:  Must enjoy working with people and have good communication skills.  Must be an avid reader, or have experience appropriate to selecting materials for another person.  Must be able to provide transportation for delivery of materials and be responsible for client’s materials and information.