Volunteers

Volunteers are a valuable asset to the library and community. Services provided by volunteers expand the library’s services and provide support to paid staff. The volunteer experience will be beneficial to the library, as well as offering training and knowledge of the library’s role to the community.

• No regular library staff is to be removed or displaced in favor of a volunteer.
• Volunteers will report to the immediate supervisor or coordinator of the department to which they are assigned. In the supervisor’s absence, the volunteer must report to the Assistant Director or Director of the Library.
• Volunteers will be assigned projects not in conflict with the duties of a regular library employee. A volunteer’s talent, experience and capability will determine assigned duties.
• All volunteers will receive training and orientation from the department supervisor/coordinator. Volunteers with extended service will be updated on policy or procedure changes just as a regular staff member.
• Supervisors/coordinators will work with volunteers to determine a work schedule acceptable to both parties. If a volunteer cannot make a scheduled shift, he/she is to report to the supervisor/coordinator. Volunteer hours are to be recorded and reported to the Director.
• Volunteers must perform their functions according to standards set by the library. Those who do not do so are subject to dismissal.
• The project assigned to the volunteer may be inspected by any supervisor/coordinator at any time.
• The volunteer may be permitted to use library equipment necessary to perform assigned duties. Equipment may include, but is not limited to, computers, copiers, telephone, and microfilm machines.
• If a situation with conflicts should occur, the volunteer may meet privately with the supervisor/coordinator and/or Director.
• As volunteers are not paid for their time, the supervisor/coordinator must keep in mind other forms of recognition are necessary.