Supporting Library Activities for Children – Whitworth Library

Supporting Library Activities for Children – Whitworth Library

What does this role require?

You will be supporting staff with activities such as Baby Bounce and Rhyme, Storytime, Reading Groups, Drama events, Craft activities, Digital Learning/Creative Sessions, Games Sessions, Homework Sessions and Children’s Craft Activities, as well as providing information and knowledge for enquiries.

Lancashire libraries care and cater for the needs of their local communities and are recognised as a safe space and often the main community hub. The library service is continual involved with new projects to ensure they provide what is needed locally for all ages. By running regular events and acting as the venue for many other local groups’ activities, they endeavour to help tackle the issues leading to social isolation. The need for volunteers to help assist the service, by helping under supervision to provide many of the activities and projects, is vital.

What are we offering to you?

• An opportunity to share your love of reading and working with children and young people
• An introduction programme and a designated member of staff as a contact for assistance and feedback
• Training and support
• An opportunity you can include on your CV
• Reimbursement of travel expenses.

Before applying – Please contact a member of staff at Whitworth Library before applying for further guidance. The volunteer will be required on selected dates on an ad hoc basis, dependent on events taking place at the library that require support, etc. Specific dates and times are flexible and can be decided between the library and volunteer, dependent on availability.

Tasks:

• Baby, Bounce and Rhyme, Toddler rhyme time, Story Time sessions: Assisting staff to set up the area for sessions, welcoming attendees to the sessions, organize prams, arrange chairs, singing the set songs, reading the chosen books, tidying up after the sessions.
• Craft, Games and drama event: Assisting with the preparation of craft / drama materials prior to the events, setting up the area for the sessions, welcoming attendees to the session, assisting the children with the various activities as required etc. helping to tidy up afterwards.
• Reading groups to engage a group of not more than ten pupils aged 9 – 11 and to guide discussions and activities based on the book or theme set for that month. The volunteer must enjoy reading and be willing to commit to reading one book per month.
• Other activities: in agreement with staff at the library.

What are we asking for from you?  

• Regular attendance at an agreed time
• A positive attitude to young people
• Behave in accordance with library rules and regulations
• Comply with the Volunteer Acceptable Use Guidelines
• Log volunteering hours monthly and submit expenses where applicable via an on-line computer system
• Complete minimum level training e.g. safeguarding and commit to further training relevant to role

Required Qualities:

• be a good communicator
• have patience and understanding
• have confidence when dealing with children and young people
• have an ability to patiently guide and instruct children and young people
• have an ability to get to know the children and young people and understand their interests and motivations
• be friendly and approachable
• be reliable and committed
• BEFORE APPLYING  – Please  speak to the library manager about this opportunity for further details.