Volunteering in Libraries
We are grateful to volunteers who support Nottingham City Libraries.
Volunteering increases skills and experience, it makes a difference in local communities across the City.
What to expect
- A quality induction
- Relevant training
- Ongoing support from a named person
- Opportunities to meet with fellow volunteers
- Annual celebration event
- We value our volunteers’ opinions and ideas through feedback and consultation
How to apply
Find the role for you below and complete the online application form.
You should expect to hear if you will be invited to attend an informal interview or a trial in the role within five working days.
We require two satisfactory references for each volunteer and some roles are subject to clearance of a Data and Barring Service (DBS) check, previously known as CRB.
What our volunteers said
“I enjoy the chance to meet a range of interesting people and the challenge to make their experience interesting, helpful and enjoyable”
“There is so much to be gained from volunteering, and after many years of retirement it is great to be valued again, to learn new skills, meet new people of different generations, share experiences and expertise and feel that one is being physically and mentally challenged”
“I like feeling like I'm making a difference. Over several years, you build up a relationship with the community and it is also a nice break from my everyday life”
“I really enjoy being involved in the activities which have been interesting and varied, and it is very rewarding to see the children and parents' enjoyment. I also enjoy feeling part of the process to promote and encourage people to use libraries, having a sociable and rewarding role working alongside such lovely and supportive library staff, and feeling valued.”
Current opportunities
Listed below are the roles we can offer, sign up to our newsletter for monthly alerts about new opportunities as they come up and general library news.
Chai Experience - Asian Social History Volunteer
The exciting Chai Experience project aims to celebrate and showcase Nottingham’s Asian Social Heritage in the 50s and 60s. Volunteers will support and encourage people to share their personal experiences and memorabilia of life in Nottingham. The 18 month project will run at 4 libraries; Central, Wollaton, Dales Centre (Sneinton) and Hyson Green and will form a collection of resources for our Local Studies department. |
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What are we looking for:
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Community Gardener
Role: Community Gardener |
Description: |
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What are we looking for:
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Conversation Groups - for learners of English
Role: English Conversation Group Facilitator |
Support and encourage people from different cultures to improve their spoken English skills and to help them integrate with the City through stimulating and varied conversation |
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What we are looking for:
Mondays 12.30pm to 3 pm at Dales Centre Library Thursdays 2.15pm to 4.30pm at Nottingham Central Library
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Home Library Service
Role: Home Library Service Volunteer |
Enable people to enjoy books, film, or music once they are unable to visit their local library for reasons such as disability, mobility, illness, or caring responsibilities |
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What are we looking for:
Information about the Home Library Service is featured on our Accessible Library page. |
Language Café
Role: Language Café Volunteer |
Support and encourage Nottingham’s diverse communities to learn and develop new languages, share knowledge, and meet new people in a relaxed, inclusive environment. |
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Storysmash
Role: Storysmash Helper |
Help young adults develop confidence and new skills with this innovative project connecting reading, creative writing and gaming. |
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What are we looking for:
Minimum of 6 months commitment to at least one of the following weekly sessions:
Saturdays, Bulwell Riverside Library 10am to 12pm Mondays, St Ann’s Valley Library 4pm to 6pm Thursdays, Nottingham Central Library 5pm to 7pm |
Duke of Edinburgh award placements
Libraries are keen to support young people working towards their Bronze and Silver awards.
We can accommodate one young person per library at a time so cannot always guarantee a placement. To apply please download and complete the Duke of Edinburgh Application Form.
or get in touch via email for more information: library.volunteer@nottinghamcity.gov.uk