Notice: Trainings will be held at the end of January, May, and October. Teen summer volunteer trainings will be scheduled between April – June.
Due to covid-19 changes, we have experienced delays in replying to volunteer applicants. Volunteer training is conducted quarterly and must be completed prior to volunteering. Thank you for your patience.
For questions, please call 410-313-7792
Volunteers overview
Volunteers play an integral role at Howard County Library System (HCLS) by providing valuable assistance to HCLS staff and customers. Our goal is to place volunteers in meaningful areas that will provide a satisfying experience while contributing to the high-quality public education HCLS delivers to everyone in the community.
The benefits of volunteering include
- Learning new skills.
- Gaining valid work experience.
- Staying current with HCLS’ curriculum, including its collection of materials, research assistance, and classes and events.
- Meeting new people.
- Contributing your talents to your community for the advancement of education for all, improving the economy and quality of life.
- Becoming part of an award-winning library system.
- We don’t accept volunteers seeking to fulfil court-ordered community service hours
Universal responsibilities
- Volunteer must commit to a minimum of 2 hours per week for 6 months.
- Most volunteer assignments require some physical ability: pushing, pulling, bending, stretching, kneeling, and/or squatting. Some heavy lifting (up to 30 lbs) and standing are required for most positions.
- Volunteering at HCLS requires that you interact with customers and staff members in a respectful and civil manner. You are expected to perform the job courteously, pleasantly, and efficiently.
- Abide by HCLS policies and procedures.
- Record your volunteer hours on the volunteer attendance sheet located at the branch.
- Wear a volunteer name badge.
- Follow the dress code.
Different ways to volunteer
Before filling out an application, carefully review the requirements and qualifications for each assignment choice. Choose the position that best meets your needs.
Adopt a Shelf
Volunteers keep materials in order and shelves neat. Volunteers adopt a subject area that is of personal interest and maintain its order, accessibility, and appearance. Ages 14 yrs old and up.
Maker Space Volunteer
Welcome customers to this new space and encourage them to explore the various elements of the Maker Space at the Glenwood Branch.
Spanish Language Translator/Customer Liaison
Bilingual (Spanish/English) speakers are needed to assist Spanish speaking customers with library services at the Elkridge Branch.
Tech Help Desk
Help to bridge the digital divide by assisting library customers with their technology questions. Must be over 18.
HCLS Project Literacy Tutor
Provide adult basic education tutoring on a one-to-one basis. Must be over 18. Select the link to learn about how to become a Project Literacy volunteer.
Summer Reading Club Volunteer
Encourage and support children as they participate in the Summer Reading Game.
Applications accepted March 2023
Enchanted Garden
Assist with this innovative, outdoor educational environment at HCLS’ Miller Branch. Limited availability.
Applications accepted March 2023
Student Volunteers
Student volunteers must be at least 14 years old. Currently, Adopt-a-shelf and Enchanted Garden are the only areas where students can volunteer.
A limited number of volunteer positions are available for teens each year. Students are advised to apply early in the school year, by completing a volunteer application. The volunteer coordinator will interview applicants and provide an orientation to HCLS.
Student volunteers typically must be able to commit to a minimum of two hours per week for at least three months. Currently, there are no volunteer opportunities for students under 14 years of age. Anyone under 18 must have parental permission.
Key skills include
- Flexibility – willingness to perform a variety of projects and tasks.
- Communication and listening skills – willingness to ask questions if tasks are unclear.
- Dependability – willingness to complete assigned tasks and fulfill volunteer commitment.
Ability to follow instructions, work independently, and focus on fairly detailed tasks.
Ability to work cooperatively as a team with other volunteers and staff members.
Respect for diverse lifestyles, cultures, religions, and values.
Service Learning Hours may be available for students who volunteer. Students are responsible for checking with their school to verify that their hours will qualify.
Still interested?
Please answer the following questions
- Can I commit to volunteering once a week for six months?
- Can I be dependable and professional while representing HCLS?
If you can answer yes to these questions, volunteering at Howard County Library System is for you!
We appreciate all the interest being expressed in our community.
