Home Library Service Volunteer

This role is for individuals who will visit matched library customers (clients) at their home, taking them a selection of library items and renewing and returning when required. It often becomes an unofficial befriending role with the client seeing the monthly visit as a real highlight on their calendar. It would be suited to someone who is a great conversationalist, and comfortable socialising with a variety of people. Please be aware that as part of this role a DBS check will be carried out on your behalf by Buckinghamshire Council.

Tasks will include:

• To be a member of Buckinghamshire Library Service and have knowledge of the range of library stock and services.
• To choose a selection of relevant books, spoken word, reminiscence materials etc. for the client(s) on average once a month.
• To be able to reserve items for the client using the online catalogue (training will be provided if required).
• To deliver the selection to the client(s) at their home.
• To spend some time with the client, if they require it, to discuss what they enjoyed.
• To renew items the client wishes to keep a bit longer if no one else is waiting for them.
• To make arrangements for visiting directly with the client and keep in contact if arrangements need to be altered.
• To, wherever possible, attend volunteer meetings and training session when offered, and to read newsletters and emails sent by the Home Library Service co-ordinator to keep up to date with new processes or practices.
• To maintain client confidentiality at all times.
• To refer queries to the Home Library Service co-ordinator.
• Promote and demonstrate library resources and services.
• Be a positive ambassador for the library service
• To be aware of Buckinghamshire Council’s aims, organisational values and behaviours and their impact on this role.
• To carry out the duties of this role in accordance with the Council’s policies in respect of diversity and community cohesion.
• To carry out all tasks and responsibilities with reasonable care for the health and safety of others and to co-operate fully with the Council in Health and Safety matters.

Skills required:

• Good communicator and comfortable engaging with people, including those with additional needs.
• An interest and awareness of library services.
• Ability to work individually.