Before I get into today’s topic, I would just like to take a second to say thank you to all my readers. Whether you’re just here for Call Log Diaries or you read everything I post, I just want you to know that I super appreciate you. Thanks for being here! Honestly, it didn’t really dawn on me that people were actually reading my blog until today. When I dropped my kids off at school, the secretary mentioned that she really liked the topics I’ve been writing about and to keep at it. And let me tell you, that felt pretty great! Knowing there are actual people following along is such a surreal experience. So thank you reader’s, from the bottom of my heart.
Speaking of reading, when’s the last time you stepped into your local library? If it’s been some time, you’re seriously missing out. There’s just something magical about the smell of a library. Its equal parts nostalgia, dust and peace rolled into one. Our nearest library, the Madelyn Helling Library, holds a very special place in my heart.
When I was about nine years old, my mother and I were out on one of our weekly library runs so that she could get her book on tape to listen to while she delivered mail. As we stood at the counter, watching the librarian check out our things, I off-handily said, “Wouldn’t it be so cool to work here, Mom?” Before she could even answer me, the librarian began to tell us how we could sign-up to volunteer. Needless to say, the paperwork was done right then and we planned to be back the same time next week to officially start. From then on, once, sometimes twice a week, for a few hours after school, I would be at the library volunteering. This continued all through high school and even after I got my first job, I made time to help out whenever I could.
If you or your kids love books as much as I do, volunteering at the library is a perfect way to grow that passion. Plus, it’s not just about shelving books (though, fair warning: that can be a surprisingly big job, especially after events in the children’s section—think organized chaos). Volunteering also connects you to a community of people who love learning, and you’d be surprised how much you’ll pick up just by spending time there.
Most libraries offer a variety of volunteering opportunities for those looking to give back to their community. Most of your time will be spent shelving books in the children’s, and young adult fiction sections. If you’re tech-savvy, you might assist patrons one-on-one in the Tech Center or help with tech workshops. Teens can help with outreach, while adults may find themselves supporting events and other youth programs. There’s something for everyone!
How to Volunteer
Getting started is easy and takes no time at all.
1. Go to your local library, chat with the volunteer coordinator, and fill out a simple paper application. (Nevada County Libraries has an online volunteer application that you can do anytime!)
2. Schedule & attend a quick interview
3. START VOLUNTEERING!
(If you’re 18 or older, be prepared for fingerprinting as part of the process. The county covers the fee if you commit to a minimum of six months of volunteering.)
If you’re looking for a fun way to give back, need an extracurricular activity to make college apps stand out, or simply want to be more involved in your community, volunteer at your local library. Trust me, it’s a novel idea worth exploring. (See what I did there?)
What’s your take? Drop it below!