Adult Volunteer Policy

Statement of Purpose

Volunteer time, energy and goodwill are invaluable assets to the Library because volunteerism enhances the Library’s ability to fulfill its mission by providing opportunities for direct public participation in library services.  Volunteerism also strengthens the Library’s relationships throughout the community.  Volunteer opportunities offer citizens a way to contribute to the community, fulfill personal goals, achieve satisfaction and advocate for quality library service.

Definition of an Adult Volunteer

A volunteer is anyone, 18 years of age or older, who assists the Library on a regular basis with Library activities without financial compensation.  Volunteers will not be used to replace the work done by paid staff.  The Library will not provide medical, health, or worker’s compensation for any volunteer.  Examples of volunteers include Friends of the Library members, Rutgers Master Gardeners, Idea Farm teachers, and tutors.

Becoming a Volunteer

Volunteers shall not be excluded due to an individual’s age, race, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, physical appearance, socioeconomic level, education level or any other legally protected characteristic.

• All volunteers are required to fill out a Volunteer Application Form.
• All volunteers are required to sign a liability waiver form.
• Volunteers are subject to a background check at Library expense.
• Volunteers are selected based on their qualifications in relation to the needs of the Library at any given time.
• If not selected, applications will be kept on file for six months.
• Acceptance of an application is at the Library Director’s (or designee’s) discretion.

Volunteer’s Responsibilities

• Volunteers may not perform activities which could reveal confidential patron information. This includes use of the Integrated Library System (Sirsi). 
• Volunteers are expected to conduct themselves as if employed by the Library and must present a positive image to the public, adhere to established policies and practices regarding work schedule, attendance, conduct, performance, safety, proper attire etc.

The Library’s Responsibilities to Volunteers:

• Review job duties and expectations.
• Confirm work dates, times, and anticipated duration of the assignment.
• Supply volunteer with a name tag which must be worn while on assignment.
• Provide procedures and training for all volunteer tasks.
• Ensure that all volunteers serve in positions which reflect their skills and interests as closely as possible while meeting the needs of the Library.
• Provide supervision in accordance with sound supervisory practices and Library policies
• Maintain accurate volunteer data.

Guidelines for Volunteers

1. Volunteers should always wear their name badges while working in the Library.
2. Volunteers are ambassadors for the Library and need to present a positive image to the public. It is expected that each volunteer’s dress and grooming will be appropriate for a business environment and in keeping with his or her work assignment. If a volunteer is dressed in an inappropriate manner, they may not be able to work their shift.
3. Volunteers should maintain a professional, friendly demeanor at all times and are asked to direct all questions to a staff member.
4. Volunteers are responsible for updating personal data, such as change of address or telephone number, etc., with the Executive Assistant.
5. Volunteers who are family members of Library staff may not be placed under the direct supervision of their family member.
6. Volunteers agree that the Library may at any time, for whatever reason, decide to terminate the volunteer’s relationship with the Library, or to make changes in the nature of their volunteer assignment.
7. Library owned equipment and supplies are for library use only and may not be used for personal business.
8. Volunteers are asked to be alert at all times to safety hazards and to report unsafe acts or conditions to their supervisor. Volunteers should also notify their supervisors of any assignment which causes physical discomfort or which could lead to personal injury. All injuries, whether minor or serious, must be reported directly to a supervisor.
9. Personal telephone calls are discouraged. Emergencies, of course, arise but such calls are expected to be of minimal length. Telephone calls placed for personal business or recreational use are forbidden.
10. To end a volunteer commitment, please notify your supervisor or the Executive Assistant of that decision and the effective date.

 

Volunteer policies from following libraries were helpful in the formulation of this policy:  New Brunswick Public Library, Hartford Public Library, Morrisville Public Library, Princeton Public Library.

Approved by Old Bridge Public Library Board of Trustees:  May 11, 2016

Volunteer Application [PDF]
Volunteer Release of Liability [PDF]