Be a Volunteer!

Volunteers fill a vital role at the Library and allow the library to function at a much higher level of service than would be possible with paid staff alone. Volunteers are present at the library on a daily basis to check books in and out at the circulation computers, shelve books, mend books and videos, and process new books. The library currently enjoys the help of over 70 volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact Diana Warner, at 378-2798.

Circulation

The largest number of volunteers at the San Juan Island Library help with circulation. During open hours patrons are greeted by a team of two volunteers who handle the automated check-in and check-out, and the shelving of returned library materials. Circulation volunteers have a training/orientation to prepare them for this job. These volunteers handle an average of 400+ check-ins and check-outs each day.

Book Processing

The San Juan Island Library adds significant numbers of new books each week to its collection. After the library staff makes the necessary additions to the library catalog for these new books, the books must be prepared for circulation. The library relies on a cheerful group of volunteers to handle this process, which involves adding book pockets for date due cards, covering the new books with protective plastic to ensure a long shelf life and stamping the books with identification information. Books with worn covers and newly mended books also get spiffed up by this team.