The library’s volunteer program is designed to expand and enhance public service to the community. Volunteers learn more about the library and its place in the community and observe firsthand the way the library serves the community’s needs.

1. Volunteers are identified as persons who regularly perform duties or tasks for the library without wages or benefits.  The volunteers described in this policy are different from volunteers working through other organizations such as the Friends of the Library and Family Connections, who are governed by the policies and bylaws of those organizations.
2. Individuals donating time to the library under the auspices of any other unit, (e.g. Scouts, churches, community organizations, etc.) may identify themselves with the unit, but may not  promote it while working in the library.
3. The library is generally unable to accommodate court-ordered community service.
4. The Human Resources Officer shall oversee the recruitment, use, and recognition of volunteers.  Each department that uses volunteers shall designate a Volunteer Supervisor to train and supervise volunteers.
5. Volunteers must complete a Volunteer Application form and will be interviewed before being accepted as a volunteer.  Volunteers must be at least 12 years old.
6. A criminal background check will be completed for volunteers over eighteen years old.
7. Minor children may only work as volunteers with the consent of a parent or legal guardian.
8. Volunteers will not be accepted if there is no suitable job match when skills, interests, and availability are considered.  If there is not a job available, the volunteer will be informed that their application will be kept on file for one year and s/he will be contacted when there is an opening.
9. Volunteers supplement the efforts of paid library staff in meeting demands for quality public service. Volunteers will not be used to replace or reduce the number of paid staff.
10. Volunteers may work on a regular basis or for special projects or events, depending on the needs of the library.
11. Volunteers are recognized by the public as representatives of the library and shall be guided by the same work and behavior code as employees.
12. Volunteers are bound by the rules contained in the Circulation Policy, especially as it relates to privacy and confidentiality.
13. Volunteers shall wear identification badges when working for the library.
14. Volunteers working in the library have liability coverage for property damage and/or bodily injury to others which results from the performance of their volunteer duties, and to themselves, if the library is negligent.
15. Volunteers work under an at-will status and may be discharged with or without cause or advance notice.
16. A volunteer’s file will be retained for two years.

 

Approved by the Shaker Heights Public Library Board of Trustees 5/11/2010, 5/13/2013, 6/9/2014, 5/21/2018, 3/15/2021, 3/21/2022