The mission of the Palatine Public Library District’s volunteer program is to provide suitable opportunities for volunteers to assist staff and patrons in order to enrich patrons’ experiences while enhancing the relationship between the Library and the community. 

Volunteers must be a valid Palatine Public Library District cardholder and at least 16 years old.  Policy 8-12 of Policy 8 - Community Relations provides further information regarding the volunteer program and requirements to become a volunteer. 

Volunteer Opportunities:

The Library has a variety of volunteer opportunities - Weekly Volunteers must commit to a minimum of 2 hours per week, Special Project Volunteers assist staff completing special projects or events, and Short Term Volunteers (3 months or less) are those seeking to fulfill volunteer requirements for school or other organizations and must be required to serve a minimum of 15 hours.  Please note: The Palatine Public Library District is unable to accept court-ordered or court-supervised community service.

There are currently openings for:

Program Volunteers - The Information Services Department is looking for 5 volunteers to assist with hosting adult programs.  Volunteers must be 21 years or older and be available weekday evenings and/or weekend afternoons.  If you enjoy attending our adult programs, this is the volunteer opportunity for you!

North Hoffman Branch Shelver - The North Hoffman Banch, located in the Willow Recreation Center, 3600 Lexington Drive, Hoffman Estates, IL, is looking for a volunteer to assist staff shelving returned materials. One opportunity availalbe on Fridays 4-6 or 5-7.

Book Shift Volunteers - The Information Services Department is looking for 4 volunteers to assist with a major book shift.  Once trained, volunteers can discuss schedule with staff.  This project will continue for several months so those looking for volunteers hours to fulfill a volunteer requirement are encouraged to submit an application.  Please note:  this project requires the ability to lift 25 pounds.

Book Shift Volunteers:

Please see Book Shift Volunteers information listed above.

Self-Checkout Ambassadors:

Assist patrons in the new Hold area and assist with self-checkouts by the Circulation Desk.  Five opportunities are available Monday through Friday 11-1 during the months of June, July and August.  Each volunteer will come in one day per week.  Please indicate your day preference on the application.

Graphic Volunteer:

Assist in the Communications Department with various Summer Reading Program tasks including Summer Reading Buttons.  One position available on Thursday or Friday.

How to Apply

It’s easy! Volunteer applications are available at the Information Desk at the main library and at each of the Library’s branches, or you can download the form. Please remember to indicate the volunteer opportunity you are interested in on the application.

Volunteers must have a valid Palatine Public Library District card and be at least 16 years old. Return completed applications to the Information Desk or mail to:

Volunteer Coordinator

Palatine Public Library District

700 N. North Court

Palatine, IL 60067

Once you’ve turned in your application, you will be contacted by the Volunteer Coordinator.  For further information, please contact Deborah Pettersen at dpettersen@palatinelibrary.org

Download the Application