Volunteer

Teens interested in volunteering should review the requirements and submit an application on the Teen Volunteering page.

We recruit, select, and train volunteers to assist in identified tasks that support our services to Anoka County Library patrons. Volunteers do not replace staff; they free up staff time for completion of higher level tasks. Our use of volunteers in appropriate, meaningful positions acknowledges our commitment to managing all available resources as effectively as possible.

If you are looking to volunteer as part of a court-ordered community service requirement, it is recommended that you contact Maddie Rudawski, Community Engagement Librarian, at madeline.rudawski@co.anoka.mn.us or at 763-324-1398, before submitting an application.

1. When a volunteer need is identified by staff, an applicable job description will be posted on our website and on our public bulletin boards.
2. Potential volunteers should fill out the appropriate application form:
   • Teens, ages 12-17 and/or going into 7th grade, can find more information about applying on our Teen Volunteering page.
   • Patrons interested in volunteering as a Reading Mentor should visit our Volunteer Reading Mentors page for more information and the application to become a mentor/
   • Patrons interested in other general volunteer opportunities at the library should complete the Library Volunter Application.
3. If, after reviewing the application, the volunteer coordinator agrees the applicant may be a good match for the position, an interview will be scheduled.
4. A newly placed volunteer must attend a two hour orientation session prior to beginning work.
5. Teen volunteer hours for school credit and Reading Mentors who volunteer with our Reading Bridge program are handled differently.

Volunteers at the Anoka County Library are involved in a variety of tasks, including:

• Keeping assigned parts of the collection neat and in order
• Putting carts of items in proper order so they can be returned to shelves
• Assisting in craft preparation for children’s programming
• Stamping, sorting, counting, or cleaning
• Preparing items for the book sale
• Assisting with Summer Reading activities
• Facilitating English conversation practice
• Pulling items from shelves to fill hold requests

Reading Mentors are volunteers who are paired with a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grader for weekly reading sessions. Mentors are required to commit to volunteering on a weekly basis for the same day and time for a minimum of 8-12 weeks. For more information about volunteering as a Reading Mentor and the Reading Mentor application, visit our Volunteer Reading Mentors page.

Technology Docents are volunteers with specific responsibilities related to guiding and teaching computer users.

Technology Docents are involved in the following tasks:

• Assist library staff in logging users onto the Internet workstations
• Assist library users with printing, scanning, and photocopying
• Provide quick and simple instructions when users have problems using the computers
• Help Internet users fill out web forms, apply for an email account, navigate the internet, etc. as needed
• Assist library users with digital library services such as eBooks and databases