From shelving books to teaching computer classes, Richland Library relies on volunteers to maximize resources and better serve customers. On Wednesday, April 17, the library recognized the efforts of more than 100 volunteers at a special event at the Main Library.

Middle school can be a time of change. Your child may have new interests, new friends and lots of new questions. Books are always the best way to explore the world – whether it's a book about different cultures or a book about the girl-next-door. Reading a book alone or together as a family can start a discussion about all those new emotions that are a part of growing up.

Are you enthusiastic about literacy for all ages?  Join our Summer Reading Team and help us register adults, teens and children for our summer reading challenge.  This position is available during the busy summer months to promote reading and other library literacy programming.

Our Junior and Teen Volunteers (grades 5-12) learn about the library while assisting our staff with a variety of duties.  They help sort and organize books and materials , tidy the room after one of our busy storytimes, pull materials to help us display our fantastic book collection and prepare materials for a library program. 

A Branch Assistant is a jack of all trades. They support the library with an assortment of duties that might include pulling and organizing library materials, assisting with programs, welcoming customers and special projects. You will need to engage well with others and have the physical ability to push, bend and reach our materials.

Make a difference by helping an adult gain technical skills. We need Computer Training Volunteer Assistants for our Main Library computer classes for the general public. You would support a librarian instructor by assisting customers who need some extra attention during the class session. You don’t have to be a technical expert but need good basic computer skills with the ability to engage well with customers from a variety of backgrounds. Classes are held weekday mornings, evenings and on Saturdays.

Are you a thoughtful and engaging conversationalist? Do you have effective listening skills? Do you enjoy meeting individuals from diverse cultures? Our Let's Speak English program uses volunteer Conversation Partners to assist internationals learning the English language. We will offer our group conversation programs at Sandhills, Main, Southeast and Northeast. Our St. Andrews group will have a book group format discussing book themes from diverse cultures. Programs start in September and we have day and evening program times.

Join the Welcome Team! Do you love playing host? Enjoy welcoming people into your home? We're looking for volunteers who can do the same at our Main Library. These volunteers will welcome, engage and provide friendly assistance to our Main Library customers as they enter the library. One to two-hour shifts starting at 10 a.m. or 3:30 p.m.

As a Library Ambassador you have the potential to make a direct impact in your local community. You might assist staff with library programs and events or represent the library by manning an information table at a local festival or attending a community fair. We're seeking volunteers who are passionate and enthusiastic about the library and its importance to our customers and local community. Ambassadors need to be willing to learn about library resources and services, be personable and engaging with the public and be comfortable using technology.