Our volunteers play a vital part in maintaining the Indiana Free Library's high standard of service, and those contributions are always appreciated. We offer opportunities for you to get involved as a volunteer. Volunteer applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and are also available on-site at the desk. Candidates who meet the library’s needs and availability will be contacted. Candidates’ applications will be kept on file for 1 year, and candidates will be notified when openings occur or when help is solicited for events. If you would like to help, don't hesitate to get in touch with us using the form below. We are certain we will find a way for you to make a difference.
Volunteer Opportunities Available
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Do you love an organized space? Help us keep our library running smoothly by becoming a Book Shelver! This vital role ensures books are in their proper place, making it easy for patrons to find what they're looking for and keeping check-outs flowing. You'll also assist with "shelf reading" (ensuring books are in perfect order) and "shelf straightening." This is a regularly scheduled position, and some training will be provided to get you up to speed.
Book shelver
There are few experiences in the library more frustrating than going to the shelf to find a book that the catalog says is available, only to discover that the item is not where it’s supposed to be. Our volunteer shelvers are the first line of defense against those pesky misplaced books!
This program is intended for those seeking a long-term, weekly volunteer opportunity.
Members of the volunteer shelver team shelve library materials in their proper place, check the shelves to ensure that they are in order, and sort carts of materials to be shelved. Training is provided.
Qualified candidates for the Volunteer Shelver Program will be:
- At least 16 years of age;
- If 18 and older, able to obtain Pa. State Police Criminal Record and Pa. DHS Child Abuse History clearances, as well as sign a disclosure statement (for those residing continuously in Pa. for the past 10 years) or obtain FBI Criminal History clearance (for all others), before starting service;
- Able to accurately arrange English-language materials alphabetically and numerically;
- Able to push and pull moderately heavy loads and to kneel, bend, climb, and stretch frequently;
- Detail-oriented, precise, reliable, responsible, and able to work independently;
- Willing to commit to at least one year (or one academic year for students) of volunteer service; and
- Available for a 2-hour shift one or two afternoons and/or evenings a week (excluding weekends).
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Are you a people person? Join our Outreach Team! We host numerous events throughout the year for children, teens, and adults. Your helping hands are essential to making these community events successful and spreading the word about all the amazing things our library offers.
Outreach Team Member
This program is intended for those seeking occasional volunteer opportunities throughout the year.
Outreach volunteers are called on to assist staff with programs and events inside and outside the library and may be asked to help set up for events, prepare materials for programs, and/or accompany the outreach librarian to off-site events. Those with an education background or experience are a plus.
Eligibility requirements:
- At least 16 years of age
- If 18 and older, able to obtain Pa. State Police Criminal Record and Pa. DHS Child Abuse History clearances, as well as sign a disclosure statement (for those residing continuously in Pa. for the past 10 years) or obtain FBI Criminal History clearance (for all others), before starting service
- Willing to work with the public
- Have good customer service skills
- Have a general knowledge of the library and its mission
- Evening and Saturday availability is essential
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Owlbert the Owl (Costumed Mascot)
Bring smiles to faces as Owlbert the Owl! This unique opportunity involves wearing our Owlbert costume and interacting with the public at various events. No speaking is required, but you must be able to comfortably wear the costume for extended periods.
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Owlbert Assistant
Be the helpful companion to our beloved mascot! As an Owlbert Assistant, you'll walk alongside Owlbert, guiding them around obstacles, handing out promotional items, and assisting with other duties as needed. Your support ensures Owlbert can focus on spreading joy!
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Children's Projects or Programs
Love working with kids? Our Children's Projects and Programs role is perfect for you! You'll help with various projects and programs within the Children's Department, often at library or community events. Many of these exciting opportunities take place on Saturdays.
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Bookstore Clerk
Do you have a knack for retail and a love for books? Volunteer as a Bookstore Clerk! Responsibilities include opening and closing the bookstore, light dusting, shelving and sorting incoming donations, and processing payments. We ask for a commitment to either a 2-hour or 4-hour shift. The bookstore is open Mondays from 11 AM to 7 PM and the third Saturday of each month from 11 AM to 3 PM.
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General Library Upkeep
Help us maintain a welcoming and tidy environment! General Library Upkeep involves light cleaning duties such as dusting books and shelves, wiping down DVD and CD cases, and other tasks to keep our library sparkling.
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Special Projects Volunteer
Looking for a flexible way to contribute? Become a Special Projects Volunteer! Occasionally, the library has unique, short-term projects that require extra hands. This is an ideal option for those who prefer to volunteer on an as-needed basis.
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Volunteer Guest Speakers
Sometimes we ask members of the community with skills on certain topics of interest to the community to offer informative programs through the library. We support the Pa Forward initiatives for literacy and our programs most often reflect on of those categories. We do not permit solicitation of any kind, but focus on community education. If you have a program that you think would draw people into a unique learning experience. Please leave you information below so someone can contact you. This is a great way to engage the community and keep people informed on many important topics.
