Group of teen and adult volunteers

Volunteering

Embrace the spirit of community engagement by volunteering with us! Be a valued part of our mission to inspire lifelong learning and enrich lives while gaining meaningful experiences in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

View Volunteer Opportunities

Our Vision,
Mission & Values

Our Vision

We envision a thriving community that is multi-literate, engaged and welcoming to all.

Our Mission

We provide equitable access to lifelong learning and contribute to the wellbeing of all.

Our Values

  • Trust
    We are a trusted community resource for diverse information and perspectives where the needs and privacy of all are respected.
  • Equity
    We prioritize equity, access and inclusion in everything we do.
  • Joy of Discovery
    We spark and sustain a culture of creativity, innovation and self­-expression.
  • Future Readiness
    We support our community to address today's needs and tomorrow's potential.
  • Compassion
    We embrace the humanity in everyone and treat all with respect.
A staff person pulling books off a shelf at the John M. Harper Branch to fill holds
View Our Strategic Plan
Main in a wheelchair volunteering at a library

Why Volunteer at WPL?

Our volunteers assist with programs and events, provide Collections support, help select books for Visiting Library Service customers and more.

  • Enhance and develop valuable skills in a positive work environment.
  • Embrace opportunities to connect with your community including library staff, fellow volunteers and library customers.
  • Contribute to our mission of providing resources for lifelong learning and creating welcoming spaces for all.
  • Discover the magic! Learn more about what happens behind-the-scenes at a public library.

Current Openings

  • Collections Volunteer, Main Library

    Location: Main Library, Collections Department
    Timing: Flexible scheduling, 2-hour shifts weekly or bi-weekly
    Estimated Start Date: February 2025
    Estimated End Date: Ongoing
    Number of Volunteers Needed: 1

    What You’ll Do:

    • Assist Collections staff in covering, labeling, and stickering books
    • Remove outdated newspapers and magazines as directed by staff
    • Clean CDs and DVDs
    • Help with other projects as needed

    Impact of Your Role:

    • Facilitate quicker access to materials for customers to enjoy, by aiding in covering, labeling and other processing tasks
    • Maintain a fresh and organized newspaper and magazine collection to allow staff and customers to locate items efficiently
    • Increase the longevity of CDs and DVDs through regular maintenance

    What We’re Looking For:

    • Good manual dexterity for handling books, magazines, newspapers, CDs and other materials
    • Ability to bend and lift materials between carts and shelves
    • Strong communication skills
    • Ability to follow directions and pay attention to details

    References: Required

Apply to Be a Volunteer

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About You

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Age(Required)

Looking for other volunteer opportunities?

Explore diverse volunteer opportunities beyond the library in the vibrant Waterloo Region. Connect with local organizations, contribute to meaningful causes, and make a positive impact on our community by discovering a range of rewarding volunteer experiences tailored to your interests.

Volunteer with the City of Waterloo Volunteer Waterloo Region

Have questions about volunteering with us?

We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about volunteering with WPL. You can reach us at 519-886-1310 ext.186 or by emailing us at volunteer@wpl.ca.