Volunteer Opportunities
JCPL Volunteers make the library a better place! Opportunities are subject to availability and successful completion of the Volunteer Application process. Visit our Volunteering Details page for more information about the application process.
Except where noted, please contact Human Resources Manager Amber Turner (aturner@jcplin.org) by email or phone if you are interested in pursuing any of the volunteer opportunities listed on this page.
Here are some of the ways we use volunteers in our community:
Tutoring Adult Learners
Our volunteer tutors help adults with low English literacy skills, including English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. Tutors are not required to be familiar with a language other than English. Tutors meet at a JCPL location with learners for at least one hour per week for a minimum of six months, and are needed for both one-on-one and small group learning:
- One-on-One Learning:
- English as a Second Language (Conversation Partner)
- English as a Second Language (Reading, Math, Writing)
- Adult Basic Education (Reading, Math, Writing)
- Small Group Learning:
- English as a Second Language (Reading, Math, Writing)
- Adult Basic Education (Reading, Math, Writing)
- Classroom Assistant at Adult Learning Center (walk-ins, computer programs, etc.)
- Guest/Substitute Conversation Group Leader
- Conversation Group helps ESL students practice their English skills and learn about American culture.
A-B-C Read to Me Program
JCPL has partnered with Johnson Memorial Hospital in a program called A-B-C Read to Me.
- Hospital Visits: A-B-C Read to Me volunteers visit new parents just after their baby's birth at Johnson Memorial Hospital. Volunteers give parents board books and library materials that guide them through introducing early literacy skills to their children.
Friends of the Library
If you are passionate about making your local Johnson County Public Library an invaluable resource to the community, consider becoming a member of the Friends of JCPL! Opportunities include:
- Selling Materials at a Friends Book Sale
- Sorting Materials for a Friends Book Sale
- Stocking Little Free Libraries
Apply to volunteer with the Friends here
Library Programming
Do you have a special skill, hobby or other passion? We are always looking for volunteers to present programs on a wide range of topics. Volunteers have presented programs on origami, yoga, knitting, and much more! Program presenters should be willing to present to a diverse patron population with a wide range of abilities. Library programs typically last one to two hours. Library staff will make the final decisions regarding what programs will be offered, as well as the scope, content and scheduling of programs based on library policy and community interest.
We also appreciate the help of community volunteers in support of library staff-directed programming. This may include set-up and tear-down of large programs, preparation of materials, and other tasks at the discretion of library staff.
