The goal of the Union County Public Library’s volunteer program is to provide volunteers with an opportunity for meaningful work and to contribute to the community. Volunteers’ contributions help the library’s level of service to the community. The volunteer program must benefit both the library as an organization and each volunteer. The volunteer program is a selective process due to the high number of volunteer applicants. For those who are not selected, the library will provide a list of other organizations which need volunteers.

• Providing an opportunity for meaningful volunteer work•

• Providing structure for volunteers – specific and doable tasks

• Orientation to the library, including introductions to staff, library tour, librarian contact, communicating library needs and philosophy so all volunteers understand how tasks are valued and are part of a greater whole; what to wear, breaks, check in with supervisor, sign-in

• Determining what volunteers need to do at each branch

• Training the volunteer (demonstrate the tasks that they will do)

• Designing projects and activities that allow teen volunteers to use their creativity

• Interviewing volunteers

• Scheduling volunteers

• Providing recognition for volunteers

• Evaluating volunteer program

• Addressing “problem” volunteers promptly

• Attending orientation

• Adhering to schedule

• Calling the library if volunteer is going to be absent from shift

• Signing in and out

• Dressing and conducting oneself appropriately

• Doing volunteer duties

• Seeking help if unclear about a task

• Providing feedback to the library by completing an evaluation

• Having fun!

• Notifying volunteer coordinator if you decide not to volunteer anymore.

• Completing tasks carefully and accurately

• Fulfilling same expectations as employees (being on time, staying on task, etc)