Project Description: Reading Buddies is a volunteer opportunity designed to spread the joy and power of reading with children in our community!
Hours: 1-2 hours per week on Mondays from 4pm-5pm, 5pm-6pm or 4pm-6pm. This is a commitment for the Fall semester beginning 9/14/26 and ending 12/20/26.
Responsibilities: Read aloud with children, ages 5-11, in a thirty-minute timeslot. Volunteers can register to read with two children (1-hour commitment) or four children (2-hour commitment). Volunteers provide support and encouragement to help the child view reading as a positive experience. You are not a tutor or teacher, but a buddy who provides a relaxed and supportive time for extra reading practice. Attendance expectations include; participating for the duration of the program and semester, giving at least 24-hour advance notice when an absence is expected, and having no more than 3 absences per semester.
Qualifications: Minimum age of 18. A background check is required prior to volunteering. Patient, tolerant, and caring manner. Previous experience with children is a plus. Must be able to communicate clearly in a tactful, courteous, and pleasant manner with library staff, children, and parents. Punctuality and reliability are a must. Should be able to define and explain words to children. Work quietly and independently. Neat appearance.
Training: On-the-job training provided. All volunteers are asked to participate in a Reading Buddies Training session (1 hour in person or on Zoom) the week prior to your first appointment (multiple training dates and times will be provided).
As a Volunteer you will: Acquire new skills and gain recognized work experience. Expand your social horizons. Help local children gain confidence and skill in reading that they will need for life. Help build a literate and literacy-oriented community. Contribute to the success of your public library.
