Volunteer Guidelines

Adopted by the Board of Library Trustees, November 16, 1989.

Thank you for considering volunteering your time and labor to promote library
service in Wakefield. We want to be sure that you are making an informed
commitment, so we have prepared this set of guidelines to let you know what
to expect. Please read this over and consider whether our expectations fit
with yours.

Despite the fact that you are not being paid for your services, we must be
able to depend on them. Since the public will not know that you are a
volunteer, your work will be viewed as a reflection of the work of the total
staff. Indeed, the work of the staff can be very much affected by your
contribution. Therefore, we look for the same level of performance and
dedication to your job that we expect from our employees.

You will be assigned to a member or members of the paid staff under whose
supervision you will work. You and your supervisor will agree on a specific
work schedule. We need you to be punctual, to dress and act appropriately,
and to follow standard operating procedures. We ask that you give us two
weeks” notice prior to leaving.

Much of the library”s work either is routine and not terribly inspiring, or
it requires extensive training. Please be aware that your interests and
abilities may not suit the library”s needs at this time. If you are accepted
as a volunteer, the changing needs of the library could mean that we will ask
you to alter your duties. Additionally, if your work is no longer necessary
or proves unsatisfactory, you may be released.

If you plan to use the library as a reference in searching for another job,
consider requesting performance appraisals from your supervisor.

If a vacancy for a paid position should open in the library, you will
certainly be given consideration and you will have an advantage if your
volunteer training is relevant. However, there are many variables to be
considered in hiring permanent staff, and we do not recognize an obligation
to give priority to a volunteer.

If these guidelines are in keeping with your expectations, please submit an
application for employment (available at the Circulation Desk). You will be
interviewed by the Assistant Director(246-6335), at which
time you can raise any questions about these guidelines.

The Board of Library Trustees and the staff appreciate your willingness to
serve your community through our public library.