Would you be willing to volunteer?
It's only possible to run the library because of the kind support provided by volunteers who help with the issue and return of books, with stocking shelves and answering members' questions. Typically volunteers come in for a one or two hour slot each fortnight.
We are looking for volunteers to assist with fundraising, including arranging activities such as raffle and stalls at village fetes, and helping to get our friends card scheme off the ground. If you have fundraising or sales experience - or are simply enthusiastic - please do get in touch.
If you are interested in any of these roles please contact us
Be a specialist volunteer ...
Do you have a specialist skill, interest or hobby? Could you share your knowledge at a drop-in session on a weekly/monthly/one-off basis? For example:
- 'Computer buddy' - computer literate volunteers needed to provide support to library visitors to reserve/renew books online, use Google, use services that members have access to with their BCC library card.
- Reading aloud as part of children's reading group/story time.
- Homework Club - helping young people find the information they need for homework assignments.
- Subject specialists - to offer talks or support to library users in finding information. Subjects could include: local history, family history/tree research, specific crafts/hobbies, computer/internet use, creative writing etc.
If you are interested in any of these roles please contact us
Be a transport volunteer ...
It's important that the library is accessible to the whole community. Could you help with:
- Book delivery - foot, bicycle or car - to those who can't get to the library?
- Library lifts - collecting/dropping off those without transport who would like to visit the library or a village amenity?
If you are interested in any of these roles please contact us
Be a village champion ...
One or more library champions in each village would be able to support the library in various ways such as:
- Putting posters on village notice boards.
- Helping with leaflet drops.
- Keeping the Committee informed of village events/needs/service requirements.
- Liaison with other village groups/organisations and local businesses.
- General promotion of the library, keeping it on the agenda.
- Suggest ways of engaging with their village.
- Compiling/maintaining a Beacon Villages events diary and directory.
- Manning stands at village and school fetes and events
If you are interested in any of these roles please contact us
Serve on the Committee ...
The management Committee decides the library's prioirites, raises funds, oversees the management of volunteers with the mission of improving the service. Roles involve:
- Publicity. Creating projects to raise the profile of the BVCL with residents and the media, poster design, media articles, digital and social media.
- Community fundraising. Co-ordinating fundraising events.
- Raising commercial income. Mini literary festivals, friends card/Beacon Villages passport, items for sale etc.
- Service improvement. Running a suggestions book, researching ideas, improving book stock.
- Finance. Book-keeping and accounts.
- Legal. Lease, insurance, risk and compliance issues.
- Volunteer co-ordination. Running a rota, utilising volunteer skills, recruiting volunteers.
- Running extra-curricular events. Booking author talks & special interest sessions.