Thank you for considering the Central & Unser Library as a place to volunteer your time!
Volunteers play an important role in assisting the Library to offer our services to the community on a continual basis. Volunteers are selected based on their qualifications and the needs of the Library at any given time.
What are some of the volunteering opportunities?
Below is listed a sample of volunteer assignments. Not all of these assignments are available at all times.
- Shelf reading
- Book cleaning or repair
- Shelving patron holds
- Pulling books and items to be sent to other Library branches
- Search for Missing items
- Book and Bulletin Displays
- Special Programs Assistant (i.e. assist with Storytimes, Lego Club, etc.)
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 will try to match our assignments to your interests, but may ask you to alter your duties to meet the changing needs of the Library. Library staff will train you on the specific skills necessary for each assignment.
What are some preferred skills or abilities?
The skills we prefer our volunteers to have depends on the assignment. Here is a sample of skills we may be looking for:
- Good attention to detail
- Knowledge of alphabetical order
- Ability to use 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.
What else do I need?
A criminal background check will be required. City of Albuquerque policy requires anyone who wishes to volunteer at the Library to consent to a background investigation by an outside agency. There is no cost to you.
And, a love for Libraries and books!
You will be contacted by the Volunteer Coordinator to schedule an interview before you can start volunteering.
