You want to build a strong team of library volunteers. How do you get them to stay?

1 Define roles and expectations

Before you recruit volunteers, you need to have a clear idea of what you want them to do, how much time they need to commit, and what skills and qualifications they need. You also need to communicate these expectations to the volunteers, along with the benefits and challenges of the role. This will help you match the right volunteers with the right tasks, and avoid confusion and frustration later on.

2 Provide training and support

Volunteers need to feel confident and comfortable in their roles, so you should provide them with adequate training and support. This could include orientation sessions, manuals, mentors, feedback, and recognition. You should also create a safe and welcoming environment for the volunteers, where they can ask questions, share ideas, and report any issues. By investing in your volunteers' development, you will increase their satisfaction and loyalty.

3 Involve and empower volunteers

Volunteers want to feel valued and respected, not just used and exploited. You should involve them in decision-making, planning, and evaluation processes, and give them some autonomy and flexibility in their roles. You should also encourage them to share their opinions, suggestions, and feedback, and acknowledge their contributions and achievements. By empowering your volunteers, you will enhance their sense of ownership and responsibility.

4 Build relationships and community

Volunteers also want to feel connected and supported, not just isolated and ignored. You should build relationships with your volunteers, and foster a sense of community among them. You can do this by organizing regular meetings, social events, newsletters, and online forums, where volunteers can interact, network, and learn from each other. You can also connect them with other library staff, patrons, and partners, and promote a culture of collaboration and appreciation.

5 Offer incentives and opportunities

Volunteers are motivated by different things, such as learning new skills, gaining experience, meeting new people, or making a difference. You should try to understand what drives your volunteers, and offer them incentives and opportunities that match their interests and goals. This could include certificates, references, awards, discounts, or access to resources. You should also provide them with opportunities to grow, learn, and advance in their roles, or explore other areas of the library.

6 Ask for feedback and improvement

Finally, you should always strive to improve your volunteer program, and ask for feedback from your volunteers. You can use surveys, interviews, focus groups, or suggestion boxes to collect their opinions, experiences, and ideas. You should also monitor and evaluate the impact and outcomes of your volunteer program, and identify the strengths and weaknesses. By asking for feedback and improvement, you will show your volunteers that you care about their needs and opinions, and that you are committed to making the volunteer experience better for everyone.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?