Volunteer at Doncaster Libraries

Volunteers are very welcome to join in any of the 21 community led libraries across Doncaster. The opening of community libraries would not be achieved without the dedicated contribution of local people giving their time.

The main requirements are:

Helping with general library duties, such as opening and closing the facility.
Shelf tidying, helping customers with PCs and searching for / seeking information.
Answering enquiries using available resources.
Basic stock management (issuing and returning items from borrowers).
Reserving stock for customers.

You do not have to have computer skills to be able to volunteer.

When, where, what times?
Opening times are dependent on the local community's ability to volunteer. The amount of time you give to volunteering is completely up to you – the library service and your local volunteer managed library are simply grateful for your support.

Will the role be suitable for me?
Specific qualifications are not required.
Volunteers do need:
• Good people skills
• To respect the principles of equality and diversity
• To understand confidentiality
• To be prepared to go undergo basic training

How will I be supported in this role?
Volunteers receive training for this role. As said, the library receives regular consignments of stock, paid for by the local authority, and provide ICT facilities such as computers, and the software used on public PCs such as Microsoft Office, as well as access to a limited form of the library database with which to issue and return stock. The library service will also provide outreach support in the form of, for example, events, story-times, summer reading challenge and local history resources.

Why volunteer – what is in it for me?
Relevant training will be given. We aim for volunteers to increase their skills and confidence, and where appropriate, to gain experience to help them gain employment. It's an excellent way to meet new people and contribute directly to your community. The library service is also working closely with other agencies to ensure that we offer the appropriate support and direction for volunteers.

Who do I contact and what do I do next?
Thank you for your interest. For further information and to register your interest please email or phone your local volunteer-managed library you can find their details here: https://library.doncaster.gov.uk/web/arena/local-branches

For more information visit https://library.doncaster.gov.uk/web/arena/local-branches