VOLUNTEERS
Our Library @ Newbold Verdon
Our Library @ Newbold Verdon could not run without its volunteers, and we are always on the lookout for people to join our ranks.
Most of our volunteers operate the Library system and interact with our Library members, but we also welcome people who are willing to do other tasks, such as keeping the "Reading Garden" in good shape.
When you join us you will be given access to our online shift booking system enabling you to choose the shifts you can offer - you can do as many or as few as you wish. Volunteers work as pairs or trios - you will never be expected to work alone.
The training is done "in house" and consists of learning how the system for issuing and returning Library items works, how the Library is organised, our opening and closing procedures and how we deal with the various enquiries that come our way.
Everyone who has volunteered to date has enjoyed the experience - we're a friendly bunch who will make all newcomers welcome - so come along and see if this is for you!
Sylvia Mitchelson is one of our volunteers and here are her thoughts on being part of the team:
"We still need more volunteers to help keep Our Library open, so I thought if I wrote about my own experience as a volunteer it may help someone decide to come and try it out.
Initially, although I was very keen to volunteer I was very apprehensive - there seemed such a lot to learn and also I was anything but computer literate, googling was about my limit! I need not have worried, all the training and help you could possibly need is available and I'm very glad to be part of the Library team. I now work in a pleasant environment with really nice people. We all learn together and help each other. Eventually, especially as we never work on our own it falls into place, also what one of us forgets another will remember!
If you have some spare time and would like to see what is involved why not come along and meet us? It is very rewarding and even more important its enjoyable!"
Our Group
Our Group was set up in 2015 in response to Leicestershire County Council’s decision to withdraw staffing for rural Libraries.
We wanted to save this fantastic building and village resource for current and future residents. If we had not come forward, the Library would have closed. We are a registered charity (number 1164233) and are now fully self-funded through donations, sales and fundraising. Leicestershire County Council still provide our Library loan system and books, which is much appreciated!
Our Aim
Our initial aim, with the continued support of Leicestershire County Council, was to maintain current services such as free book loans (up to 12 books at a time) to adults and children, access to computers and Wifi and a range of reading initiatives for the young. This has been achieved.
We have also successfully built on what works well by extending the range of services and activities on offer – and hopefully to give everyone in the community a reason to visit. Examples include a regular Construction Club for younger members and "Forget-Me-Not" providing support for older members affected by memory loss and their carers.
Come and Join Us
We have successfully operated Our Library since January 2016 - but we can always use more Volunteers. A range of skills are needed - perhpas yours are just what we need! Come along to the Library to talk to us when we are open, or contact us.
We would also welcome fundraising ideas – every pound raised goes straight to maintaining and developing our services.