It’s that time of year again – for family gatherings, being thankful and giving back. While the Library may not be the first place you think of when choosing an organization to support through volunteerism, it is because of our many dedicated volunteers that Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is able to expand our capacity to serve and do more for the community.
In the last year, more than 1,400 volunteers donated 61,000 hours of their time to support the Library – valued at more than $1.8 million in donated services. Thank you to those who have given of their time so generously to help the Library improve lives and build a stronger community.
Here are a few ways you can get involved too!
Become a library volunteer
With 20 locations across Mecklenburg County, opportunities to get involved aren’t hard to find. Are you looking for a way to help children improve their reading skills? Do you have a green thumb and can help maintain library greenery? Or, do you have a knack for organization and want to help by shelving books? Check out the Library’s website for these volunteer opportunities and more.
Create a profile and get matched with volunteer opportunities that best suit your talents and skills. And, if you have an idea of how you can help the Library in another way – let us know!
Get the whole family involved
Introducing children to volunteerism at a young age can help instill in them a sense of civic awareness and active citizenship. The Library offers families the opportunity to volunteer together – with children as young as 5! Ask your local branch about our “Adopt an Aisle” program, where parents and children spend time together shelving and organizing books to ensure that materials are accessible to everyone.
Teens (ages 13-17) can also take part in the Library’s VolunTeen program to earn community service hours. With this program, VolunTeens have the opportunity to earn hours three times a year at any Charlotte Mecklenburg Library location. Responsible teens who enjoy working with the public, helping others and giving back to their community are invited to participate in activities like shelving books, tutoring elementary school students or assisting with Satellite Studios. Applications for the Spring Term, which runs February-May, will be available in early January.
Reach out to the Teen Specialist at your local library to find out how to fulfill the ever growing service hour requirements while helping create a literate community.
Benefit from volunteer services
Would your family benefit from some of the Library services offered by our volunteers? Ask a librarian at your local branch how you can find a tutor that specializes in subject areas or grade levels, or find a Reading Buddy or Paws to Read session that might inspire your reluctant reader.
The Library is very fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers who help us create a more educated community. It is a big job, but a rewarding opportunity. Why don’t you join us?
