Question regarding volunteering

Question

Okay, I am thinking to apply as a volunteer a library, however to apply I can either contact the supervisor by phone, or email. I was thinking to apply by email, however I do not know what information I should include/what questions I should ask. I would like to be as prepared as possible.

If anyone could help out with what information I should include/what I should ask, and if I should indeed contact him by email.

Answer 1

As a willing volunteer, normally is quite well welcome to help, when they really need hands to help in their organisation.  We do not know where are you from and so cannot pin-point on the type of need in like a school library, a town library , a city library or a normal or modern high-tech library.  High-tech library like those in big City will not need much volunteer as most of the work are taken over by auto-machine or kiosk such as registration of books out; books returned, payment of fine for overdue, search of books and so on.  The one in need is story teller for the children section or the introduction corner for new readers.

Another area to help is the mobile library (bus type) to service the residences.

My advice to you is just prepare what you want the person to know about you, your educational standard, your believe and your experiences.  The person will be able to let you know what you want and went to go down for your interview.  Take it easy, it is a job for your interest & contribution and not for money.  You can accept allowances to cover your transport & meal cost.   Happy to do what you wanted.

  

Answer 2

   Basic information such as your age, and educational background. You will want to submit a short explanation as to why you wish to volunteer at the library. Are you considering a future in library science? Do you enjoy researching information, or helping people find things? List what you consider are your qualifications. A knowldege of computers, typing, electronics and multi-media equipment, filing, even being good at things like counting and attention to detail when returning books to shelves all help. Give him an idea of about how many hours a month you are prepared to donate, but you do not need to list specific times at this stage. Also, any experience or skills in dealing with children may be helpful, as many libraries have programs designed to entertain and educate younger people.

   Ask what duties you would be expected to perform, what hours would be most helpful to the library, and what sort of dress code is expected. That should be more than enough for an initial contact letter. You shouldn't take more than a page to do all of this in. And yes, I think an email contact is entirely appropriate in this day and age. Phone calls are distracting and annoying, especially if the supervisor is working on something with a deadline. If you don't hear back in one week, send a second letter. I doubt you will have to wait long for a response. With tight budgets, he should be happy to consider you for volunteer employment. Good luck with the job; my first paid job came directly from volunteering at a library.