Teen Volunteer Summer Program

​​Program Redesigned for Summer 2020

This year we are adjusting our Teen Volunteer Program to ensure the safety of our staff, teens, and community in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically, each summer we invite 25 Teen Volunteers to staff our Summer Reading Program desk and assist with in-person library programs. This year, our Teen Volunteer Program will be smaller, largely virtual, and will include some take-home projects and data entry.

Our program will begin June 15th and will run through August 31st. This year for safety, we will accept a total of 3-5 Teen Volunteers. Should the pandemic exponentially improve, opening up opportunities for more in-person volunteering at the library, we will consider extending invitations to volunteers who weren't initially selected.

Requirements for 2020:

1. Must be 13 years of age by the start of the program (June 15th): we have made this age adjustment just for this year given the large online presence our teen volunteers will have this summer.
2. Commit to volunteering a minimum of 3 hours a week--primary hours will be on weekdays, with some Saturday help needed for programs. Advance notice of any absences would be greatly appreciated for planning purposes! 
3. Exhibit maturity, professionalism, and reliability. Preference will be given to former Teen Volunteers who have already demonstrated these qualities.
4. Parent or guardian permission will be required to participate: volunteers will be asked to help moderate events on Facebook, Zoom, and Discord with library-created accounts that will protect their privacy.
5. A passion for libraries and the materials we provide!

What do Teen Volunteers do?

Volunteering at the library looks great on your resume and provides experience and references for a first job, scholarships, and college applications! After you complete your volunteer assignment, you will receive an award as well as a personalized letter of reference.

Responsibilities:

1. Meet regularly each week with our Teen Librarian, Tiffany, to discuss upcoming services and projects.
2. Serve as a member of our Teen Advisory Board: meet to help make decisions for the books, programs, and services we provide to the Tweens and Teens of Monona.
3. Serve as an ambassador for Monona Public Library--spread awareness of our programs and services to your peers and help with social media campaigns for the library.
4. Moderate virtual programs for library staff on Facebook, Zoom, and Discord. Some programs will incorporate video games such as Roblox and Minecraft. Ownership of video games or their devices is not required!
5. Take projects home through curbside pickup. Projects will include putting together craft kits, assisting with summer reading program data entry, and other special projects to be determined.