Volunteer Policy
Purpose of Volunteers
The Berkeley Public Library (hereinafter may be referred to as 'the BPL') supports volunteerism to supplement and enrich library programs and activities. The library accepts volunteers to help with book sales, donations, events, and special projects, as needed. Due to patron privacy and state law, no volunteer will have access to the ILS (check-in or check-out materials, create library cards, etc.) or perform duties that could reveal confidential patron activity.
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The use of volunteers is intended to enhance library service by supplementing, not replacing, library staff with volunteers. Volunteers are not paid, and the library will not provide them with health, accident, worker's compensation or any other employee benefit. Nothing in this policy shall be deemed to create a contract between the volunteer and the BPL. Volunteers may be subject to a background check.
Eligibility
A volunteer must be at least 14 years old and able to assist with the work done at the BPL without any form of renumeration. Exceptions to the age requirement may be made by the Director. The BPL currently does not offer volunteer opportunities to satisfy court-ordered service hours.
General Guidelines & Expectations
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Volunteers must complete a volunteer application.
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Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a signed permission form with written consent from a parent/guardian.
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An orientation will be provided for all volunteers.
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The BPL tries to ensure that volunteer tasks are always safe. If there is a task the volunteer feels uncomfortable doing, it is their responsibility to let library staff know. The BPL is not responsible for injuries sustained while volunteering.
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Volunteer duties and schedules are coordinated by a paid staff member.
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Volunteers are expected to show up when scheduled and be on time.
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Volunteers will wear a volunteer badge during shifts.
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The BPL reserves the right to decline the services of any volunteer who does not perform according to the library's expectations or violates the Code of Conduct for Volunteers. ​
Code of Conduct for Volunteers
The Berkeley Public Library strives to provide a welcoming space and diverse materials that enhance and support the community, recreation, literacy, and lifelong learning. Volunteers are expected to serve as role models and comply with this Code of Conduct for Volunteers.
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Volunteers will:
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Be fair, considerate, and honest with others.
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Respect all patrons and staff members.
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Be professional with words and actions.
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Maintain a safe environment for everyone.
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Help library staff.
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Maintain the privacy of patrons, fellow volunteers, and staff be keeping personal information confidential.
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Adhere to the Berkeley Public Library's policies and procedures.
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and will comply with the Berkeley Public Library's Volunteer Policy. This acknowledgement will be kept on file with the volunteer coordinator.
ADOPTED by the Board of Trustees this 25th day of September, 2019. AYES: 5 NAYS: 0
REVISED by the Board of Trustees this 25th day of February, 2026. AYES: 6 NAYS: 0