Purpose
The Tolono Public Library District “Library” recognizes that volunteers are essential to the success of any public library. They help the Library maximize its financial resources by performing various tasks that supplement paid staff efforts and foster strong relationships with community groups and organizations, contributing their time, energy, talents, and fresh perspectives. Volunteer opportunities enable community members to give back, learn more about the Library, and contribute to expanding and enhancing its services. Together, the Library and its volunteers work to achieve its goals and mission.
Definition of “Volunteer”
A volunteer is anyone who, without compensation or expectation of compensation, performs a task at the direction of a Library supervisor or on behalf of the Library. A volunteer must apply and undergo an interview. Volunteers must acknowledge their volunteer status and accept the Tolono Public Library District policies before commencing their service at the Library.
Who Can Volunteer
- Volunteers shall be recruited without regard to any individual’s age, race, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, physical appearance, socioeconomic level, or any other legally protected characteristic.
- Volunteers under 18 must have parental consent and may not work without direct supervision by a staff member or an adult volunteer. The Library will only accept volunteers who are 14 years old and older.
- Anyone interested in volunteering at the Library must fill out an application form. Candidates will be accepted based on their qualifications and the Library’s current needs. The Library may accept an application at its discretion.
- All volunteers aged 18 and over are subject to a background check before beginning their duties at the Library. Any volunteer unwilling to undergo a background check will no longer be eligible to serve the Library in that capacity. Any volunteer or volunteer applicant who is found to be a convicted sex offender or to have been convicted of a violent crime in the last five years will not be eligible to serve the Library in that capacity.
Supervision
The Library Director and Community Engagement Librarian are the primary supervisors for volunteers. Still, volunteers can be assigned to follow the directives of other approved staff members working on large projects that require additional assistance. Volunteers are required to follow work procedures established by the staff member.
The supervisors are responsible for the day-to-day management and guidance of a volunteer’s work and will be available for any assistance needed. Volunteers should ask their supervisor or project lead any questions and report any problems or concerns they may have about their assignment. Volunteers are expected to perform their duties to the best of their ability and be loyal to the Library’s mission, values, goals, and policies. All volunteers should keep their supervisor informed of their assigned projects and
any change to their availability schedule.
While volunteers serve the needs of every Library department, they will not be used to replace the work done by paid Library staff. They are also prohibited from performing activities that could reveal confidential patron information.
Behavior
Volunteers are expected to follow and adhere to all established library policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, policies regarding work schedules, attendance, conduct, performance, safety procedures, and proper attire. Volunteers can be released from their duties at any time at the Library’s discretion.