The volunteer program of London Public Library was created to support the value-added programs and services that are vital to our community.
Our volunteer program helps strengthen people and neighbourhoods by creating connections that enrich lives, inspire discovery, foster creativity, and expand possibilities.
Interested in learning more about London Public Library’s volunteer program and our current opportunities? Each month we host an online information session to discuss our current volunteer needs and how to apply to volunteer.
Join us for a free online information session each month to see if there is a volunteer opportunity that is the right fit for you! You need to attend an information session before applying to volunteer.
To save your spot register here.
Volunteer Impact 2022:
Last year, our team of 387 amazing volunteers contributed 11,587 hours of supporting our community.
Our READ mentors have helped 255 children discover a passion for reading.
Our English Conversation mentors helped 200 English language learners become more confident in job interviews, school and in the community.
Our Tech Tutors have answered over 1,700 questions and our ushers helped us welcome back in person entertainment in Wolf Performance Hall with gusto!
Volunteers have helped out in many other ways this year that make a difference to the Library and to those who we serve. We can’t thank you enough for all that you do!
Frequently Asked Questions
Volunteering FAQ
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- Register for one of our Information Sessions
- After attending the session, you will receive a link for our online application
- If you need assistance with applying, library staff will be able to assist you.
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After you apply, we will contact you about the next steps. These steps can often take several weeks.
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Volunteers at the Library help us to serve the people who use our services. Volunteers work closely with the community in roles such as literacy mentors, technology tutors and program and event support.
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You can apply to volunteer once you are 14 years old.
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It depends on the position and your schedule, but most volunteers earn a few hours each month if they volunteer regularly.
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Some Volunteer positions require a Police Record Check. Please do not start this process until after you’ve met with staff, as it may not be a requirement of the position you’re interested in.
READ Volunteer
Session runs from September to May
READ volunteers help one child (primary school age registered in at least grade 1) to discover the joy and confidence that being a reader brings. For one hour, once each week during the school year, our READ volunteers play board games, try out a new craft or experiment, tell jokes, write stories and read with their young partner.
Children's Activity Volunteer
Many of our programs and events for children and families rely on volunteers for support. Children's Activity Volunteers work with staff to welcome participants and show children how to play a game, complete an activity or enjoy a craft during a library program. Volunteers may also help count attendance, take tickets, set up and clean up and prepare materials in advance, depending on the program. Tell us your talents! We also look for volunteers with specific skills or experience with activities such as playing chess, jewellery making, Lego building, sewing, face painting and much more.
English Conversation Mentor, One-on-One
Session runs from October to June
It takes a lot of practice to feel confident speaking a new language. Our English Conversation Mentors provide support and encouragement to an adult who wants to practice their new English skills in a casual, social situation. The emphasis is on social conversation, not on teaching so our pairs talk about their families, food, London and whatever else they may have in common. Our volunteers find this program hugely rewarding and many new friendships have been made by the participants in this program.
Ushers at Central Library, Wolf Hall
Wolf Performance Hall at the Central Library regularly hosts films, concerts, lectures and community events. Volunteer Ushers get to enjoy these presentations while also helping people to and from their seats, ensuring safety guidelines are followed, greeting visitors, handing out programs and remaining in the Hall during a performance. Training is provided.
Technology Tutor
Many of us have helped a parent or friend to set up an email account, download a file or fill out an online application form. Tech Tutors offer friendly assistance with basic computer tasks to people using our public computers. This services is offered in most library locations.
Adult Program Volunteer
Some of our programs and events for adults rely on volunteers for support. Adult Program Volunteers work with staff to welcome participants, they have a skills that they can share, and enjoy being social by nature. Volunteers may also help count attendance, take tickets, set up and clean up and prepare materials in advance, depending on the program. Tell us your talents! We also look for volunteers with specific skills or experience with activities such as knitting, Chess , sewing, paper crafts and much more.