V is for . . .
The Oxford dictionary defines a volunteer as someone who “offers to do something without being forced to do it or without getting paid for it”
Our volunteers are a multi-faceted, highly valuable resource; their contributions and the involvement of volunteers form a virtuous cycle. Unlike a monetary donation which has a set value, the value of time and heart are unlimited.
Volunteers are involved with projects and programs that are embedded in the work of Libraries Unlimited. While some volunteer roles are of a more transactional and short-term nature, the ripple effect of the exposure to our organisation is far more powerful than the transaction of writing a cheque or making an online donation.
Most volunteers – no matter whether their involvement is in-person, occasional or virtual –go through some level of orientation when they join an organisation. This awareness-raising and exposure heightens the emotional and educational aspects of becoming involved with an organisation and impacts a volunteer in ways that are not often obvious.
The Power of Volunteer Energy
Volunteers do fantastic work. They are far from the low-level helpers checking off mundane to-do lists like their stereotypes suggest. Volunteers are an incredible source of renewable energy to help us meet our missions. As we look forwards and begin to recover from the upheaval of the last two years, we need to challenge ourselves to make the most of all our communities have to offer.
Volunteering benefits individuals, groups and organisations, and our local areas. It increases people's wellbeing and connects them to local activities. It helps groups and organisations to increase their capacity and to reach out to communities.
If you are, or know someone who has skills, knowledge or an interest and would like to use them to support your library and for the benefit of your community, have a chat with your local library supervisor.
During the summer holidays, Olivia, a university student, created a Summer Reading Challenge Tree for Budleigh Salterton library. Olivia has always loved libraries and felt very much at home chatting to customers about their reading.
Sally is one of the first of Okehampton’s volunteers to return to the library, not only does she help staff keep on top of shelving and stock processing, but she is fantastic at interacting with customers and helping us to create a welcoming environment.
“I am very pleased to have the opportunity to return, hopefully more of a help than a hindrance! My role adds variety to my week” ~ Sally, Okehampton Library volunteer.
For information about volunteer roles in the library, call into your local library for a chat, or visit the library’s website.
Further information about volunteering can be found here:
