Volunteers at the Farmers Branch Manske Library contribute valuable assistance to the paid staff by enhancing the high level of Library service provided to the citizens of Farmers Branch. The Library staff tries to place committed, enthusiastic people who are eager to donate their time and talents. Volunteers must be at least twelve years of age to be considered for volunteer positions at the Library. During the school year, young adults between the ages of 12 and 17 will report to the Volunteer Coordinator; during the summer they will report to the Youth Services Librarian.

Prospective volunteers should contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (972) 247-2511.

The Volunteer Coordinator will arrange a short interview to determine how to match the prospect’s interests, skills and schedule with available jobs.

During the interview process, the prospective volunteer will fill out a Volunteer Application form and be expected to read the Volunteer Manual. Young adults ages 12 through 17 will be required to have a parent sign a Young Adult Volunteer Parental Permission form and return it to the Library before beginning to volunteer.

If a suitable job is not available at the time of the interview, the Volunteer Application will be placed on file. As appropriate positions become available, prospective volunteers will be contacted.

The Library uses volunteer help to assist regular staff in supplemental areas but not to provide basic services. Volunteers help with a variety of tasks, including:

• Shelving Library materials
• Processing Library materials
• Checking in Library materials
• Mending Library materials
• Searching for missing materials
• Performing clerical tasks, such as stapling and folding flyers
• Delivering materials to homebound patrons
• Teaching English classes
• Working on crafts projects for youth programs

The Volunteer Coordinator will provide a brief orientation for new volunteers, including a quick Library tour to point out sign-in sheets, restrooms, the lounge and lounge privileges, the volunteer’s own work area, and where supervisors sit. The Coordinator will also review volunteer guidelines at this time, and stress the importance of signing in and out in regard to the City’s Risk Management program.

As a Library volunteer, you should:

• Remember to sign in and out for each assignment
• Feel free to ask questions if you do not understand instructions.
• Volunteer only at your scheduled work times.
• Complete your assignment in a careful, accurate fashion.
• Be reliable, dependable and prompt.
• Give prior notice of absence.
• Limit socializing in a loud or excessive manner which may distract others.
• Maintain sensitivity to the needs of Library patrons and co-workers by being positive and cooperative.
• Dress appropriately for the Library environment.