Volunteer Opportunities
Explore our ongoing volunteer opportunities below. Click on each title for a more detailed description. One-time volunteer opportunities for special programs and events are also available and can be found on our page on VolunteerDBQ.
PURPOSE OF VOLUNTEER JOB:
Increase access to materials by maintaining items in correct order on the shelves.
TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
Two hours per week on a regular basis anytime the library is open.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Select a specific area of the collection and take responsibility for just this area
- Review items on shelves for order by alphabet or Dewey Decimal
- Pull grubby looking or damaged items for selector review
- Maintains DVDs and Blu-ray movies in alphabetical order
SKILLS/ABILITIES/QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- Ability to arrange items in numerical and alphabetical order
- Physical ability to push, bend, stretch, reach, lift, and read book spines
- Strong organizational skills – an aptitude for detail
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to work congenially with staff, the public, other volunteers and convey a
positive, friendly attitude - Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions, policies, and
procedures - Ability to received instruction from library staff and the cooperation to abide by
library policies and regulations
TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
A minimum of 1 hour/week for a 3-month commitment. Bring the whole family or friends to complete a shelving section.
PURPOSE OF VOLUNTEER JOB:
Increase the appearance of the library building.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Select a section of black bookshelves to keep dust-free
- Remove and replace items on the shelf after dusting
- Straighten the items on the shelf to specifics mentioned at training
SKILLS/ABILITIES/QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- Physical ability to push, bend, stretch, reach, lift, and read book spines
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to work congenially with staff, the public, and other volunteers and convey a positive, friendly attitude
- Ability to receive instruction from library staff and cooperate to abide by library policies and regulations.
TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
Flexible and to be determined by the number of homebound patrons signed up to serve
PURPOSE OF VOLUNTEER JOB:
Provide library materials to people who are homebound and unable to come into the
library to check out materials.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Select books for patron based on interests
- Deliver materials
- When picking up materials and bringing new materials, discuss satisfaction with selected titles that are being returned to assist in future selection
SKILLS/ABILITIES/QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- Ability to speak and understand English
- Ability to work congenially with staff, the public, other volunteers and convey a
positive, friendly attitude - Ability to work with empathy with people who are homebound for a variety of
reasons - Ability to provide dependable transportation to deliver materials and maintain
insurance coverage on vehicle - Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions, policies, and
procedures - Ability to receive instruction from library staff and the cooperation to abide by
library policies - Maintain confidentiality in dealing with patron information
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
- Ability to lift and carry tote bags full of books weighing up to 20 lbs.
TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
Minimum of 2 hour shifts
PURPOSE OF VOLUNTEER JOB:
To help children and teens sign-up for summer reading and distribute prizes.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Explain summer reading guidelines
- Thank and encourage kids for reading in the summer
- Keep accurate track of the number of prizes given out
- Resupply prize options
SKILLS/ABILITIES/QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- Interest in and enjoyment of working with children
- Ability to handle a busy environment with patience and understanding of children’s
needs - Ability to work genially with staff, the public, other volunteers and convey a positive,
friendly attitude - Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions, policies and procedures
- Ability to speak and understand English
- Ability to read and alphabetize
- Excellent fine motor skills and attention to detail
- Maintain confidentiality in dealing with patrons’ information
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
- Able to move around and be steady on feet behind a desk
- Ability to lift and/or move materials as necessary up to 20 pounds
TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
A minimum of one hour per month for at least six months. Additional time is optional for those interested in leading teen-focused projects or initiatives with the library.
PURPOSE OF VOLUNTEER JOB:
To attend and participate in Teen Advisory Group meet ups on the last Tuesday of every month. Help generate ideas and provide feedback for events, activities, initiatives and more that promote a positive message and encourage teen involvement with the library.
This opportunity is ideal for high school students, especially juniors or seniors who plan to attend college. Colleges appreciate applicants with meaningful extracurricular achievements. As a member of TAG, you can help make a difference in the community by connecting with your peers to create a safe, welcoming space for teens in the library. With your help, we can achieve measurable success to engage, support, and uplift Dubuque-area youth.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Attend TAG meet ups on the last Tuesday of every month for at least six months.
- Willingness to share ideas and engage with library staff and other TAG members.
SKILLS/ABILITIES/QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- Ability to work well with others in a respectful manner.
- Positive attitude.
- Good written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to follow directions and abide by library policies and regulations.
- Community-minded.
QUESTIONS?
Call Haidee at (563) 589-4225, ext. 2248 or email hcardoso@carnegiestout.org.