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Volunteering with libraries

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Library volunteering

Volunteering with your local library is a great way to make new friends, inspire others and make a difference.

You can choose the volunteering that suits you. Do you want to learn new skills or share those you already have? Want to build on previous experience, or try your hand at something new? Or do you want to just give us a hand?

Who can volunteer?

  • Anyone over the age of 12 can volunteer with Cambridgeshire Libraries.
  • You do not need any qualifications or previous experience.
  • Some roles with vulnerable people require you to be over 18, and will require an enhanced DBS check. We will take you through this process.
  • We are unable to offer work experience placements for Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12 students.

Where and when are roles available?

Volunteering with us is flexible and depends on the role. Some opportunities take place in a library, others in your community or from home. You might choose a one-off task, commit an hour a week, or give a few hours each month. Whatever your availability, there’s likely a role to suit you.

Please note: Due to capacity, not all volunteer roles are available at all times or at every library location. Be sure to check the current vacancy details under the Our volunteer roles section below.

About inclusive volunteering

We’re proud to serve the diverse communities of Cambridgeshire. We'd love our library volunteers to reflect that diversity too. Different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives help us make our libraries better for everyone.

We’re committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive and supportive space where all volunteers feel valued. If you have a disability, health condition, or support need, we're here to help. We want you to feel confident and comfortable while volunteering. As a Disability Confident organisation, we’re happy to offer reasonable adjustments where possible. This might include providing written materials in larger print or on coloured paper. You could get extra time during induction training. Quieter tasks might be offered if you're more comfortable in a calm setting.

We encourage you to talk to us about any support or adjustments you might need – whether before applying or during your informal interview. This helps us understand how we can best support you from the very beginning. We’ll always do our best to accommodate your needs where we have the resources available.

If you have any questions or would like a chat about how volunteering could work for you, please get in touch. Contact your local library manager or email volunteers@cambridgeshire.gov.uk. We’d love to hear from you.

Volunteer application process - what to expect

Submitting your application
Please complete the online Library volunteering application form on link below. Should you need a paper copy, please talk to your local library staff who will be able to assist you. Once you’ve submitted your volunteer application form, we will take you through the application process.

If you want to know more about the step here’s what will happen next.

We’ll send you an email to confirm we’ve received your application. We aim to do this within five working days but will inform you if this is not possible for any reason.

If there’s a suitable volunteering opportunity available, a member of the library team will contact you to arrange a short informal interview. This conversation helps us get to know you, learn about your interests and availability, and talk more about the role. It’s also your chance to ask questions and discuss any support or reasonable adjustments you may need. Together, we’ll explore whether the role is a good fit for you and for the library.

We’ll ask for two references. For some roles, a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check may be required – if so, we’ll explain this and guide you through the process.

We are also required to carry out a right to work check to confirm that you are legally allowed to volunteer in the UK. This usually involves showing a passport, visa, or other appropriate documentation. We’ll guide you through what’s needed.

Once checks are complete, we’ll agree a start date with you. You’ll receive a short induction and any training relevant to your role. This may include health and safety information, safeguarding training, how to support library users, or anything else you need to know about your role.

You’ll begin volunteering in your chosen role, with support from library staff along the way. If you have any questions or need help settling in, we’re here to support you. We aim to make the process as friendly and straightforward as possible. If you have any questions or concerns at any point, we’re happy to help.

Watch this video to hear from volunteers and learn what it’s like to help out at Cambridgeshire Libraries

Please watch in YouTube for more accessibility options. - opens in a new tab

Our volunteer roles

We have a wide range of opportunities. Each offers different ways to develop new skills. View the volunteer roles below to find out more and see the full description.

Have you got a bit of spare time? Just a few hours every few weeks can make a big difference to someone who can’t visit their local library. By bringing books – and a friendly face – to someone’s home as a Library@Home volunteer, you can make a real difference. You will bring books to housebound library members and offer a bit of companionship if they’d like it. You’ll help choose books based on their interests, share useful information, and most importantly – brighten their day.

What we’re looking for

Kind, reliable people who enjoy connecting with others. You’ll need to respect privacy, follow safeguarding guidance, and have a genuine interest in helping others.

Location

As a Library at Home volunteer, you’ll visit people in your local area within Cambridgeshire. We’ll only match you with someone in a location you’re happy to travel to.

Time commitment

Around two to three hours every three weeks. We suggest committing for a year if possible, but you can stop at any time.

We provide full training and ongoing support and pay for your travel expenses.

Additional requirements

  • Ability to travel to customer's houses in the library area
  • Aged 18 and over
  • Enhanced DBS check (we’ll help you with this)

For more information, please read the detailed Library at Home volunteer role description.

Do you feel confident using computers, tablets, or smartphones? With just an hour or two a week, you can make a real difference by helping library visitors build their digital skills and confidence.

As a digital buddy, you’ll support people in your local Cambridgeshire library with a range of tech tasks – from using email and filling in online forms to accessing e-books, digital newspapers, or family history websites.

What we’re looking for

Friendly, patient volunteers who are happy to share their digital know-how in a simple, supportive way.

Location

Based in your local library as arranged with local library management.

Time commitment

One to two hours per week or fortnight – flexible and arranged with your local library.

We provide

  • Role-specific training and ongoing support
  • A chance to make a real impact in your community

Additional requirements

A DBS check is required, and we’ll guide you through the process.

For more information, please read the detailed Digital Buddy volunteer role description.

Do you enjoy working with children? Just a few hours a week can make a big difference to children and families in your community. By volunteering at your local library to help run children’s activities – such as Rhymetime, Storytime, Lego Club or craft sessions – you’ll help spark a lifelong love of books, learning and creativity.

Our Rhymetimes and Storytimes bring people together and give young children the chance to learn through play, repetition and social interaction. You’ll be part of the magic of starting a child’s reading journey. You'll help them discover rhymes, stories and songs in a welcoming and supportive space. Nothing beats the joy of seeing a child’s face light up. Especially when they master the actions to Incy Wincy Spider or The Wheels on the Bus for the first time. Your enthusiasm will help bring stories and rhymes to life.

What we’re looking for

Friendly, reliable people who enjoy working with children and families. You’ll need to work well with others, follow safeguarding guidance, and help create an inclusive, safe and fun environment for everyone.

Location

Various library locations across Cambridgeshire.

Time commitment

 Sessions typically run weekly or fortnightly and last around one to two hours.

Additional requirements

  • Aged 18 and over
  • Enhanced DBS check (we’ll help you with this)
  • Ability to prepare the activity space and move light furniture as needed

For more information, please read the detailed Children’s Activity Leader and Children’s Activity Assistant volunteer role descriptions.

For more information on Rhymetime and Storytime please visits Library services for 0 - 4 year olds | Cambridgeshire County Council.

Just a few hours every week or fortnight can help keep your local library running smoothly and make a real difference to the people who use it. As a Library Supporter volunteer, you’ll help behind the scenes and on the library floor. You could be shelving books and preparing displays, greeting and assisting customers, creating library displays or helping customers use the self-service machine.

Whether you’re helping someone find their next great read or tidying the shelves to keep things looking inviting, you’ll be part of a valued team supporting your local community.

What we’re looking for

Friendly, reliable people who are organised, enjoy helping others, and are happy to get involved in a variety of tasks. You’ll need to follow guidance, work well with staff and other volunteers, and treat everyone with respect and understanding.

Location

Various library locations across Cambridgeshire.

Time commitment

Usually once a week or once a fortnight for two to three hours, depending on what works for you and the library.

We provide full training and ongoing support.

For more information, please read the detailed Library Supporter Volunteer role description.

If you enjoy reading and bringing people together, why not share your love of literature with others? As a Literature Group Facilitator volunteer, you’ll lead engaging, welcoming sessions at your local library. You'll encourage+ adults to connect through books, poetry, and discussion.

You might choose to lead Read a Little Aloud sessions. This involves reading stories, poems, or excerpts aloud to a group. Or you might run a short course on a specific literary theme or author.

You might lead a short series or run a regular group. Your role is to spark conversation and foster a sense of community. You'll help participants enjoy and reflect on literature together.

What we’re looking for

Confident, friendly people who enjoy reading and sharing ideas with others. You’ll need to plan ahead, communicate clearly, and create a supportive, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome to take part.

Location

Various library locations across Cambridgeshire.

Time commitment

Each session usually lasts one to two hours, plus time for preparation. You can choose to lead a short-term course or take on a regular, ongoing role – depending on your availability and the needs of the local library.

We provide full training and ongoing support.

Additional requirements

  • Aged 18 and over
  • Comfortable selecting reading materials and leading discussions
  • Confident reading aloud (if appropriate) and engaging with group members
  • Understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding procedures

For more information, please read the detailed Literature Group Facilitator Volunteer role description.

Enjoy meeting people and being part of community events? As a Library Events Supporter volunteer, you’ll help make events run smoothly. These include author talks, craft sessions, cultural celebrations, community coffee mornings, and more.

You’ll play an important role behind the scenes and during events. You’ll help to set up, greet people, support speakers, and create a great experience for all. Whether it’s serving refreshments, checking tickets, or collecting feedback, your support helps bring people together and make every event a success.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for friendly and reliable people. You should enjoy helping out and meeting all kinds of people and be happy doing practical tasks. You’ll need to work well with others, follow safety guidance, and help create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

Location

Various library locations across Cambridgeshire.

Time commitment

Events are usually held once a month, and you’ll be needed for a few hours per event. The specific time and frequency can be arranged with the library manager to suit your availability.

We provide full training and ongoing support.

Additional requirements:

  • Comfortable helping with event set-up and tidy-up tasks
  • Confident welcoming attendees and supporting speakers
  • Understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding procedures

For more information, please read the detailed Library Events Supporter Volunteer role description.

 

Love the arts and enjoy supporting community events? As a volunteer with The Library Presents, you’ll support performances and creative activities. You’ll help them run smoothly in libraries and community venues across Cambridgeshire. You’ll support live music, theatre, craft workshops, and exhibitions. You’ll play a key role in helping people enjoy inspiring, accessible events close to home.

You might set up the space or welcome attendees. You could serve refreshments or help with technical equipment. Your support helps make the event friendly and enjoyable for all.

What we’re looking for

Friendly, reliable people who enjoy meeting others and are happy to get involved with practical event support. You’ll be part of a team and can choose the tasks you’re most comfortable with. This could be front-of-house, refreshments, stewarding, or helping behind the scenes. No special skills are needed – just enthusiasm and a willingness to help.

Location

Various libraries and community venues across Cambridgeshire. We’ll match you with events in locations that work for you.

Time commitment

This role is flexible. Before each season of events, you’ll receive a brochure and can choose which events you’d like to support, based on your interests and availability.

We provide full training and ongoing support, and cover agreed travel expenses.

Additional requirements

  • Aged 18 and over
  • Comfortable with basic event support tasks (training provided)
  • Understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding procedures

For more information, please read the detailed The Library Presents volunteer role description.

Love libraries and want to make a difference in your community?

If you're completing your Duke of Edinburgh Award or looking for a fun, flexible volunteering role, join your local library. Help us with a variety of creative and practical tasks. You’ll support library staff, help with events and displays. You'll also gain valuable experience for your CV, college, or future job applications.

What you’ll be doing

Volunteers in this roles may take part in some or all of the following, depending on your interests and library needs:

  • Create and tidy displays, leaflets, and noticeboards
  • Help prepare and run groups like Code Club, Book Club, or Lego Club
  • Assist with craft activities and events
  • Photocopy, laminate, and tidy stationery or craft areas
  • Help find books from lists or for displays
  • Support customers using self-service machines
  • Tidy shelves and weed damaged books (light shelving only)
  • Support preparing Summer Reading Challenge materials and displays
  • Stamp, sort, and organise books for sale

What we’re looking for

Friendly, helpful young people aged 13+ who are:

  • Willing to try new tasks and follow staff guidance
  • Reliable, organised, and happy to work independently or with others
  • Interested in books, creativity, or helping your community

Time commitment

Flexible – tailored to your DofE requirements or availability. Your library will agree a regular volunteering schedule with you.

Support and supervision

  • You’ll receive an induction and be supported by library staff at all times

How to apply

Submit your application online below. Parental consent and a reference are required.

We are looking for enthusiastic and friendly volunteers to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people visiting Cambridge Central Library. You will be providing a friendly smile as people arrive and direct people to the correct place within the library. You will be making sure our visitors receive a warm welcome and their visit is a positive experience. You will be offering any assistance needed by signposting where to find things within the library, answering any questions or referring them to members of staff where necessary.

Time required

One to three hours on a weekly or fortnightly basis

Location

Cambridge Central Library only

Application

Please complete the application form below and select ‘Library supporter’ from the options.

Apply to become a volunteer

  • Please use the online application form to tell us your preferences for role, location and timing.
  • You will be asked to choose the appropriate volunteering form to complete (young people, Duke of Edinburgh, or 18 and over).
  • We will contact you around available opportunities after we receive your form.
  • If you would like to volunteer at a Community Managed Library which is not included in the application form below, please contact the library direct. 

Please email us if you have any questions email: volunteers@cambridgeshire.gov.uk 

Cambridgeshire Libraries jobs

Would you like to work for Cambridgeshire Libraries instead of volunteering?

Our job vacancies are advertised on our job vacancy website.