Opportunities From: One Albuquerque Volunteers

Thank you for considering volunteering your time and labor at the East Mountain Branch of the Albuquerque Public Library in Tijeras!

Much of the Library’s work is routine, or requires extensive training provided by Library staff and volunteers. Volunteers play an important role in assisting the Library to offer our services to the community on a continuing basis. Volunteers are selected based upon their qualifications and the needs of the Library at any given time.

 

What are some of the volunteering opportunities?

A sample of volunteer assignments is listed below. Not all opportunities are available at all times or at all branch locations. For a full list and descriptions, please ask at the Reference Desk.

Shelf reader Shelve books and other materials Book repair, cleaning, or weeding Holds/Paging slips Garden – plant flowers, weed flowerbeds Outdoor projects – clean exterior area Computers Special Programs Assistant Book Displays

While we appreciate every person who wishes to volunteer at the Library, opportunities are sometimes limited. Please be aware that we may not have a volunteer position available at this time that suits your interests and abilities. If you are accepted as a volunteer, we may ask you to alter your duties to meet the changing needs of the Library. Additionally, if your work is no longer necessary or proves unsatisfactory, you may be released.

 

What are some of the necessary skills or abilities?

The skills we prefer our volunteers have experience with depends on the assignment. Here is a sample of skills we look for:

Good attention to detail Knowledge of alphabetical order Ability to learn the Dewey Decimal System Ability to match bar code and title Ability to follow oral and written instructions Ability to work independently Ability to ask questions when clarification is needed Ability to become familiar with all sections of the branch Computer literacy Willingness to learn Library databases Patient with good social skills Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office, internet, and email basics

Please note that not all skills are necessary for all volunteer assignments.

 

Have an idea for a Library community activity?

Besides the opportunities listed above, if you have another idea for an activity you think your branch Library could benefit from that you could volunteer for, let us know! At various branches, we have activities like chess club, college prep help, science programs, book clubs (in various languages)--the list goes on! You are welcome to talk to the Volunteer Coordinator at your local Library to discuss what's possible.

 

What else do I need?

A criminal background check will be required. City policy requires anyone who wishes to volunteer at the Library to consent to the performance of a background investigation by an outside agency. There is no cost to you.

You will also be asked to complete a short interview with the branch's Volunteer Coordinator, as well as a brief shelving test.

 

Thank you for considering the Library for your volunteer service!

2026 Summer Reading Program Teen Volunteer (Ages 13-18)
Unearth A Story! -- May 30th, 2026 to June 13th, 2026 East Mountain Public Library

 

What do SRP volunteers do?

Teen volunteers are a vital part of our summer programming.  Volunteers help with all types of work, from signing up participants, to stamping Summer Reading Logs, and handing out weekly prizes. They may also be asked to help with the day-to-day business of the library, as well as contributing their own special skills on an as-needed basis. Volunteers should be prepared to attend a mandatory orientation and to work a minimum of one shift per week for the duration of the library’s Summer Reading Program which runs May 30st through July 25th.

Special events are where our volunteers will really shine.  Volunteers may help with offering and/or assisting during arts & crafts or story time programs, helping with setting up and tearing down, and with generating publicity by sharing information about our events. Teen volunteers play an important role at the Library during the busy summer schedule.

What do I need to become a SRP volunteer?

All volunteers must be able to attend an orientation session in order to be considered for the SRP volunteer program. I have 2 dates and times currently available: 

Tuesday May 26th at 4pm (takes about 1 hour)

Friday May 29th at 4pm (takes about 1 hour)

If you cannot attend the orientation date, please contact Mr. Chris at (505)281-8508.

Important:

City policy requires background checks for anyone aged 13+ before being considered to volunteer for the Library. There is no cost to the applicant. Background checks must clear before volunteers attend orientation in order to volunteer during the program.

Your background check must be approved before you can sign up for a shift.

Contact Mr. Chris with any questions:
(505)281-8508 or cwarner@cabq.gov

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the Albuquerque Public Library!
We are excited to work with you!