Volunteer Opportunities
Develop skills, share your talents and make a difference in your community. Library volunteers help kids and teens with homework, tutor adult English learners, assist librarians with programs and events, facilitate book discussion groups and more. Volunteering is a great way to provide meaningful service to our community and to meet people from all walks of life.
Volunteer opportunities will be offered in 2023
The Library is currently assessing the post-pandemic needs and priorities of our patrons while working to increase staff capacity to support additional community programs. We look forward to offering a variety of volunteer opportunities as we expand community programming in 2023. We are grateful for your interest in volunteer service and encourage you to visit the following websites to learn about volunteer opportunities that are available now. Please contact our Volunteer Services Coordinator at volunteer@spl.org if you have questions.
How You Can Volunteer at the Library
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old for the following volunteer opportunities. Contact our Volunteer Services Coordinator or call 206-386-4664 to ask about volunteer openings and request an application.
Volunteer Roles
Adult Tutor
Provide tutoring and encouragement for English language and adult basic education learners who are developing skills in conversational English, reading comprehension, writing and preparing for the U.S. Naturalization and GED tests. Volunteers tutor learners at the Central Library and the Broadview and Rainier Beach branches for at least six months.
Homework Helper
Homework Help volunteers support K-12 students’ academic success by helping them develop literacy and math skills, understand homework assignments and prepare for college. Volunteers tutor students in all subjects and may also specialize in high school subjects.
Most of the students are first-generation Americans who speak a language other than English at home. Volunteers provide Homework Help once a week when Seattle's public schools are in session. Those volunteers who have variable job and/or school schedules can be scheduled as substitute Homework Helpers at least twice a month. We ask for a commitment for the entire school year, September - June.
We ask that prospective volunteers submit their application in July for the new school year's Homework Help program. However, we accept applications throughout the school year as we continue to place volunteers.
Library Support Volunteer
Assist staff with providing a welcoming environment for patrons at the Library's programs. Provide operational support and help staff maintain attractive collections and displays. The responsibilities of each volunteer will vary, depending on interests, skills and availability. We ask for a three-month commitment.
Story Time Assistant
Help children's librarians provide a fun and enjoyable environment for children at Story Time at Library branches. Assist with librarians with room set up and take down, welcoming families, singing songs and making crafts. Most of the Story Time programs are offered on weekday mornings. We ask for a four-month commitment.
Visitor Center Volunteer
Volunteer ambassadors welcome people to the Central Library and provide information about classes, events, exhibits and meetings in the library. They also offer tourist information and directions to downtown locations. Successful volunteers have public service and communication skills, familiarity with the library and Seattle, and compassion for people from all walks of life. We ask for a six-month commitment.
Volunteer: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if there are currently volunteer openings for adults?
You can send an email to volunteer@spl.org to ask about volunteer openings. Because of considerable interest in volunteering at the Library, we are unable to place all interested volunteers.
What is the time commitment for volunteering?
Many of our volunteer positions require a minimum commitment of three or six months. A typical shift is two hours once a week. If you are looking for a one-time volunteer opportunity, contact:
How do I complete court-mandated community service hours?
You cannot complete court-mandated hours at The Seattle Public Library, but you can fulfill this requirement at other local organizations, including:
- Seattle Parks and Recreation’s volunteer work parties
- Food Lifeline and local food banks
- United Way of King County
- VolunteerMatch.
How can I volunteer with the Friends of The Seattle Public Library?
The Friends of The Seattle Public Library is a nonprofit group that supports fundraising and advocacy on behalf of the Library. They offer volunteer positions at their book sales and in the FriendShop at the Central Library. Find out how to get involved with the Friends.
Can my group work on a service project with the Library?
We do not offer service projects for groups of volunteers. The following organizations offer volunteer opportunities for groups:
Where can I earn service learning hours for high school graduation?
We offer Learning Buddies and Teen Service Learning activities for high school students to make a positive impact in their communities and earn service learning hours for school. Check our Teen Service Learning page, speak with the Teen Services librarian at your local library or email us for more information.
I am a Library volunteer. How do I log my volunteer hours?
Current volunteers and teen service learners can log volunteer hours online.
Are there volunteer opportunities for teens?
Teen Service Learning is a great way for you to help your community, develop skills for jobs and college, and earn service learning hours for high school. You will learn about community needs and work on service projects with other teens. Learn more about teen service learning opportunities.
If you have a question or need help, email our Volunteer Services Coordinator or call 206-386-4664.