Volunteering

Purpose of the volunteer program

Kansas City Public Library volunteers assist the Library in achieving its mission of connecting a diverse community to resources that inform, enrich and entertain. The Volunteer & Intern Services program is a bridge, offering volunteer roles which provide opportunities for civic service, personal growth, building relationships, and assistance for the Library’s work force.

Types of volunteers

• Long-Term Volunteers work continuously in an on-going role at either the Central Library or at the Branch Libraries.
• Episodic Volunteers work in a short-term role or on a one-time project with beginning and ending dates.
• Civic Service Volunteers work to meet church or school requirements, volunteer as part of civic group projects, etc.
• Court-Ordered Volunteers have been sentenced to perform community service hours by the legal system.
• Friends of the Library Volunteers are members of and work on projects for the Friends of the Library.
• Summer Reading Program Volunteers are those who help with the summer reading program.
• Adult Volunteers are 18 years of age or older.
• Youth Volunteers are ages 15-17.

Benefits of volunteering

Volunteers will receive clearly-defined roles; work assignments appropriate for their background, skills and interests; a safe work environment; orientation to the Library and training for their roles; the opportunity to develop skills marketable for future career work; supervision and feedback assessing their performance; documentation of work and training experience; appreciation for work done; and recognition for hours of service.

Volunteers receive free parking at the Central Library, discounted bus passes, free video checkout and waiver of over due fees on the volunteer’s Library account.

Become a Volunteer

Applicants must participate in an interview with the Coordinator of Volunteer & Intern Services or department/branch supervisor so they can be assigned to a volunteer position that best matches their skills, interests and background. Persons applying for volunteer positions that involve working with children, vulnerable adults, or visiting the homes of Library customers must also agree to a criminal record check.

To become a volunteer, visit any library location or call (816) 701-3707 to request a volunteer application. You can also download an application form. Return all completed forms to the Coordinator of Volunteer & Intern Services:

The Kansas City Public Library
Central Library
14 West 10th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
Attn: Katie Taylor

Email the Volunteer Coordinator

If you have questions or want to know more about volunteering at the Library, email the Coordinator of Volunteer & Intern Services.