HCLS recognizes the important role volunteers play in providing excellence in services and programming for the residents of Hancock County.  Volunteers allow the library to expand and enhance the services it provides by supplementing, not replacing, the efforts of regular staff.  Any person who is 14 years or older may apply to become a library volunteer—without compensation or the expectation of compensation.  Volunteer service may be provided on a one-time basis, periodically during special projects or seasons, or on a long-term scheduled basis.  HCLS cannot accommodate court-ordered community service in its volunteer program.

To become a library volunteer:

• Complete and submit a volunteer application form to HCLS administration

•  Adult volunteers over the age of 18 and are required to complete a background check

• Youth Volunteers may serve individually or as part of a group. If you are volunteering as part of an academic or scholarship program, supervisors will work with you to make sure assignments meet established standards and can be completed within a set timeframe.

Conditions for volunteering:

• Submitting an application does not guarantee volunteer placement.

• Tasks performed by adult and youth volunteers will be mutually determined by volunteers, supervisors, and library administration based on the needs of the library.

• Volunteers may be restricted from performing certain activities that are deemed confidential or present a risk to the volunteer or the library.

• Volunteers must be able to interact and communicate respectfully with library staff and the public.

• Volunteers must abide by all HCLS policies, rules, and procedures.

•  Volunteers should communicate effectively with their supervisors regarding schedules, assigned tasks, and service interests.

• Volunteers may request a letter of recommendation from their supervisor for academic or job purposes, to be provided at the supervisor’s discretion.