Volunteering at the Library
Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer at the Somerset County Library. Volunteers are important partners in fulfilling the Library's mission of promoting learning by providing materials, services, and access to information that enrich our community and excite the imagination. Volunteers support the Library staff in various capacities, work with patrons, and help with special projects and community events. If you enjoy meeting and helping people, then share your talents and skills and discover the rewards of giving your time and energy to an organization that enriches the lives of others and the community!
Volunteer Opportunities Generally Available
- Assist with programming
- Assist at Circulation Desk with checking in/out materials
- Shelve returned materials
- Dust and straighten shelves
How to Become a Volunteer
In order for an applicant to be considered, potential volunteers:
- Must be at least 14 years of age (Age 17 years or under must have written permission from a parent or guardian)
- Must be willing to volunteer a minimum of 2-3 hours per week
- Must agree to at least a 6 month commitment
- Must complete a volunteer application
Your application will be reviewed and if there are any possible matches with currently available volunteer opportunities, you will be invited to attend an information session and interview. Every possible attempt will be made to find a match between applicants and available jobs, but the Library reserves the right to turn away volunteers when skills, interests, and schedules are considered.
Desired Volunteer Skills
Volunteers do not need library experience, but certain skills are invaluable for working in a library:
- Strong interest in books, reading, and learning
- Good interpersonal and customer skills
- Ability to take initiative, solve minor problems and work under minimal supervision
- Basic computer skills
Benefits of Becoming a Volunteer
Although the Library benefits greatly from its volunteers, volunteering can be very rewarding for the individual as well.
- Acquire new skills and gain valuable work experience
- Expand your social horizons and make new friends
- Receive verification of your volunteer work for school
- Use as a job reference
- Serve the community