Library Seeks Teen Volunteers

This summer, the Keene Public Library is expanding its popular VolunTeen program to offer Keene young adults even more opportunities for developing character, responsibility, and empathy. The library’s VolunTeen program allows teens to see first-hand what it is like to work in a library, and to discover how giving one’s time and energy can make a big difference in someone else’s life. Through the library’s VolunTeen program, area students can help the library make a difference this summer by assisting with the summer reading program and other special projects.  Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age.  Volunteers are required to attend a training session offered on Saturday, June 12 at 10 am in the library’s auditorium. All teen volunteers that attend the training will receive a free lunch. Interested teens can pick up an application at the library located at 60 Winter Street. Return completed applications to the library as soon as possible. 

Teen volunteers can also help librarians prepare for storytimes, straighten library shelves, and greet library patrons. “We hope to give young people a positive volunteering experience by having them work side-by-side with our librarians," said Gail Zachariah, Head of Youth and Community Services at Keene Public Library. According to Zachariah, teen volunteers will assist by preparing program materials, helping young children with games and crafts at library programs, compiling, and inputting statistical information regarding the summer reading program, and helping with bulleting boards and displays. Teens will also help the library plan for fall programs and improve our library service to teens. "Last year, we had wonderful teens from the area volunteer at the library. Because of the success we’ve had, we wanted to expand the program this summer and invite more teens to participate," Zachariah said.  “We think that this summer will be the most fun for the volunteers.  We have spent a lot of time planning and re-thinking because we want the volunteer experience to be positive for the teens. One of the new things this summer will be special parties and events throughout the summer just for VolunTeens that have been successful meeting their volunteer commitments.”

The library asks VolunTeens to make a commitment of two hours a week. Shifts will be assigned in blocks of two to three hours.  Teens that are reliable, responsible, trustworthy, and independent, yet able to work in a team are eligible to apply. For more information on the VolunTeen Program, please call Gail Zachariah at 603-352-0157.