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1. What time commitment is expected of me as a volunteer?

Most of our volunteer positions require a commitment of a two hour shift, once a week, for a minimum of three months.

2. What if I only want to volunteer for a couple of weeks?

Most of our positions require a regular, ongoing commitment. Our minimum required commitment is three months from your start date. If you are looking for short-term volunteer opportunities, other organizations may be able to help:
• Volunteer Match
• Hands on Greater Portland

3. Do I have to have a set schedule?

Yes! We need to know when to expect volunteer help and be ready for you--so a regular schedule is very important.

4. How old do I need to be before I can volunteer?

Applicants who are 14 years of age and up will be considered for volunteer positions. We do allow 12-13 year old community members to apply for our Summer Reading Program Volunteer positions.

5. Does the Library accept Court Ordered Community Service Volunteers?

Unfortunately, the Library is unable to accept court ordered volunteers. The volunteer program at the Library is looking for people who want to make a minimum commitment of three months and volunteer two or more hours per week. Most court mandated volunteering does not fit into this structure. However, the City of Beaverton Public Works team has a program for court ordered community service. For information about their Community Service program, call 503-526-2220.

6. I need to complete Service Learning and/or Community Service for my school. Can I volunteer at the library to complete those hours?

Yes! Beaverton City Library offers opportunities for students needing to fulfill school community service and/or service learning hours. Students must be willing to meet the following requirements before joining the volunteer program:
• Volunteer once a week for two consecutive hours
• Volunteer for a minimum of three months
• Coordinate completion of required paperwork between school and Library

7. Can my group do a project with the library?

Maybe. The library occasionally has opportunities for community groups. Please contact the Volunteer Program for details.

8. How do I get training?

On your first day, you will receive training from your supervisor. Some positions require additional training which will ideally coincide with your regular weekly shift.

9. Once I become a volunteer, may I use the Library as a reference?

All volunteers who have volunteered for 20+ hours may use the Library as a reference.

10. I’m interested in volunteer evenings or weekends. Is that needed?

Yes! We have volunteers here seven days a week.

11. I need to complete a practicum for my community college, college or graduate program. Does the library offer these opportunities?

Yes! We have several unpaid internship needs each spring and summer and may be able to accommodate students other times of the year. For more information, please visit Internships and Practicums.

12. How do I get started?

To apply to be a library volunteer, complete a Volunteer Application.

13. Other questions?

Contact us at jjohnson@beavertonoregon.gov or 503-526-3703