Library Volunteer Coordinator

Time Commitment

15-20 hours, monthly, 12 month commitment

Purpose

Managerial expertise to oversee the development of a library volunteer program.

Benefits of Volunteering

• Chance to meet new people
• To work in pleasant surroundings
• To develop new skills
• Give something back to the community
• Share your talents
• Feel needed and valued
• Enhance your resume
• Satisfaction from accomplishment

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plans, directs, oversees and coordinates the library volunteer program
• Recruits, interviews, tests, and selects each volunteer applicant thoroughly and determines knowledge, skills, and abilities before acceptance into the program; receives volunteer applications and maintains a log and file of all applicants; handles all necessary correspondence with applicants in a timely manner
• Implements an interview process for potential volunteers to ensure the best match between the skills, qualifications, and interests of the volunteers and the needs of the library
• Designs and implements volunteer schedules
• Selects volunteers for each available position
• Plans and directs orientation for new volunteers; coordinates on-the-job training and other required training between volunteers and staff
• Ensures that all volunteers are informed about library programs, services, and activities and that the library staff is informed about the volunteer program
• Works with the library director and other staff members to identify opportunities for volunteer support and to develop new volunteer positions and programs; establishes and maintains a listing of the volunteer positions in each department(larger libraries), including the desired number of volunteers for each position
• Identifies and implements ways to recruit new volunteers through community outreach, public relations programs, volunteer recruiting fairs, local volunteer agencies and organizations, and other service organizations
• Organizes volunteer recognition and appreciation activities
• Develops and maintains a volunteer handbook including volunteer job descriptions
• Orients volunteers to increase their understanding of the library, its patrons, its services and the role and responsibilities of volunteers
• Ensures volunteers receive safety and emergency response training as required and are informed of all library (town/city) policies related to their work
• Assists supervisory staff in addressing performance deficiencies/issues and when necessary, provides additional training, reassigns the volunteer or deselects them from the volunteer program assignment altogether.
• Prepares and maintains accurate and complete records of the work performed; prepares clear and concise reports to monitor the success of the volunteer program; creates related written reports as necessary
• Develops volunteer policies and procedures in conjunction with the library director and/or library board

Skills/Abilities/Qualifications Required

• High degree of initiative and creativity
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to create a plan with strategies for volunteer recruitment and retention
• Work cooperatively and with enthusiasm to support collaboration, inspire volunteer involvement and reduce attrition
• Computer proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to set goals and be accountable for completing each assigned task
• Effectiveness at delegating tasks and assignments to groups and individual volunteers
• Ability to speak and understand English and to convey a positive, friendly attitude
• Excellent oral communication and written skills
• Ability to receive instruction from library staff, and the cooperation to abide by library policies and regulations
• Ability to prioritize shifting work priorities
• Prior managerial experience a plus