Volunteering at WNPL

The mission of the Warren-Newport Public Library District Volunteer Program is to support the library staff and enhance the services provided to the patrons. Through the commitment of time and contribution of talent, volunteers help WNPL provide quality service while responding to our customers’ needs. We value our wonderful volunteers. Their assistance at library events and behind the scenes help the library to run efficiently and to achieve our goals. Volunteers have the satisfaction of knowing they are helping their community while they stay active, meet new people, gain or retain skills, and learn about Warren-Newport Public Library.

The types of opportunities that may be available include doing clerical work, making phone calls, shelving library materials, processing new materials, assisting in a computer class, dusting, and maintaining the picture book room. Volunteer applicants must be high school students or adults and are required to complete an adult volunteer application or a student volunteer application (PDF; Adobe Acrobat required). Students under 17 need parental permission to participate in the program.

We ask that adult volunteers wanting to assist the library on a regular basis work a minimum of two hours per shift/per week for a minimum of six months. Student volunteers are asked to make a commitment of two hours per shift/per week for a minimum of three months. With advance notice, we attempt to assist students needing to complete school-required service hours. Unfortunately, we cannot provide volunteer opportunities on a “drop-in” basis, or for those needing to complete court-ordered community service.

Completed applications will be held for six months. While we appreciate every person who wishes to volunteer at Warren-Newport Public Library, volunteer opportunities are limited. If a position matching our needs with your abilities and interests becomes available, the Volunteer Coordinator will contact you to schedule an interview. Adult candidates must agree to an Illinois State Police criminal background check. All volunteers must commit to a weekly schedule, arrive when scheduled, dress appropriately, wear an ID badge while on duty, maintain strict confidentiality and follow all library policies and procedures. Training will be provided by WNPL staff members.

For more information or to obtain an application, please contact Laura Stone, Volunteer Coordinator, at (847) 244-5150 extension 3059 or by e-mail at lstone[at]wnpl.info  (substitute an “@” for the [at] in the e-mail address).. Applications may also be obtained online by clicking on the appropriate link for an adult volunteer application or student volunteer application (PDF format; Adobe Acrobat required)  Applications are also available at the library’s Check-out Desk.