Supporting Library activities for children – Rawtenstall Library

Supporting Library activities for children – Rawtenstall Library

Rawtenstall Library is seeking volunteers to help support their Baby Bounce and Rhyme activity.

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. Their many regular activities and events include: Digital skills courses, Mental Health & Wellbeing groups, Reading groups, Children’s Activities, Craft Activities for all ages as well as providing information and knowledge for enquiries.

The need for volunteers to help assist the service, by helping under supervision to provide many of the activities and projects, is vital.

What you are volunteering for?
Activities may include supporting staff with activities such as Baby bounce and rhyme, Storytime, Reading Groups/Trailblazers, Drama events, Craft activities, Digital learning/creative sessions, Games Sessions and Homework sessions.

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.

Tasks:

• Baby, Bounce and Rhyme and Story Time sessions: Assisting staff to set up the sessions, organize prams, arrange chairs, tidying up after sessions and welcoming parents to the sessions
• Craft and drama event: Assisting with preparation of craft / drama materials prior to the events, setting up sessions and assisting the children with various activities such as card-making etc.
• Reading groups/Trailblazers 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:

The Volunteer must:

• 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

• Please speak to a member of library staff before applying