Volunteer

Volunteer at the Library

The Cedar Rapids Public Library is honored to work with many dedicated library supporters and volunteers. Their gifts make it possible for us to meet the many needs of our community. 

The library is generously supported by a large and diverse group of volunteers. In order to best serve our current and incoming volunteers, we are limiting applications to roles we are specifically recruiting for at this time. 

Please see below to review our open volunteer positions.

 

Volunteer shelving books

“Own” your little slice of library paradise.

Available Times:
Monday-Thursday from 9 am-8 pm, Friday-Saturday from 9 am-5 pm, and Sunday from 1-5 pm.

Requirement:
A six month commitment for a minimum of 1-2 hours every 2-4 weeks. We will work with you to set flexible scheduling parameters. Then you can schedule your time at your own convenience.

Each year, over a million items are checked out, and hundreds of thousands of people walk through our doors and look through our library shelves. Exciting stuff! And sometimes a bit messy. That’s why we need you!

As an Adopt-A-Shelf volunteer, you will keep your section in tip-top shape so that patrons can easily find what they want in our clean, professional library. This volunteer opportunity is a great fit for families, companies, social groups, or individuals! It’s designed to be as flexible as you need it to be. We know the library could always use some extra care, and we want to work with your busy schedule to allow you to give back when you can.

Adopt-A-Shelf Job Description

Help keep our libraries looking beautiful for our community.

Available Times:
Monday-Thursday from 9 am-8 pm, Friday-Saturday from 9 am-5 pm, and Sunday from 1-5 pm.

Requirement:
A three month commitment for a minimum of one hour twice a month. We will work with you to set flexible scheduling parameters. Then you can schedule your time at your own convenience.

Our Clean Team volunteers keep the library in tip-top shape by dusting and straightening shelves, tidying displays, straightening furniture, maintaining our technology areas, and spot cleaning on specific projects.

Clean Team Job Description

Join our on-call volunteer crew.

Available Times:
Opportunities are extremely flexible!

Requirement:
To be an active Volunteer Corps member, you must volunteer a minimum of two times per year.

Do you have the desire to volunteer but struggle with being able to make a regular commitment? Are you excited to get involved but worried about making a weekly obligation?

Look no further – we have the perfect opportunity for you!

Join our on-call Volunteer Corps and be eligible to help at special programs and events. The Corps go through the regular volunteer process, but are contacted on an as-needed basis for events such as special community events and programs for children, teens, and adults.

Many of these programs fall during evenings or on the weekends. Say “YES” as often as you like … but rest assured that saying “no” is also an option!

Volunteer Corps Job Description

Volunteer Eligibility

In order to become a volunteer at the Cedar Rapids Public Library, applicants must:

  • Be at least 14 or older to volunteer independently. Volunteers under the age of 14 can volunteer with an adult.
  • Successfully pass a background check which includes a check of the National Sex Offender Registry.
  • Attend orientation and training sessions.
  • Be prompt and reliable.
  • Represent the library in an appropriate and responsible manner at all times.

 

 

Volunteers cleaning a set of library shelves

Apply to Join the Library Volunteer Team

Interested in volunteering at the library? Start here!

  • All volunteer applicants can apply online. 

    Apply Now!

  • Volunteers can also print and submit a paper application using the forms below:
         — All volunteer applicants: Volunteer Application (pdf).
         — Volunteers age 18+: Background Check Form (pdf).

  • Volunteers under the age of 18 must also print and complete a Parental Agreement Form (pdf).

  • Volunteers with required service hours must also print and complete a Required Service Hours Form (pdf).

    The library welcomes eligible volunteers to work with the library to fulfill required service hours (i.e. school or service requirements, or court directed volunteer service). To be eligible, volunteers must complete the standard application process and be a proper fit for the library’s needs. The total number of hours available for an individual to volunteer will depend on the library’s schedule and needs.

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