The Greensboro Free Library is shaped and sustained by the people who care about it.

Volunteers help keep the library welcoming, organized, creative, and responsive to the community. Some volunteers come in on a regular schedule. Others help occasionally, for a project, an event, or a short stretch of time. Both kinds of involvement matter, and we try to offer opportunities that fit different lives and schedules.

If you have ever thought about helping but were unsure how or where you might fit, this is a good place to start.

Volunteer with us

We understand that availability looks different for everyone. Many volunteer roles at the library are designed to be:

Flexible and scheduled around your availability
Occasional or project based
Regular but not rigid
Easy to adjust as seasons and schedules change

Some roles work best with a consistent schedule. Others can be one time or as needed. We will always talk through expectations before you commit.

Flexible Ways to Get Involved

If you are new to volunteering at the library, you are welcome to start with a short trial visit. This is a simple way to get to know the space, the pace, and the work.

First time volunteers often help with shelving books, straightening shelves, or light organizing. From there, we can talk together about what kinds of roles might be a good fit going forward. Use the form below to contact us.

Try It and See

Get Started

Volunteer Opportunities

  • A simple line drawing of a customer ordering at a counter from a cashier in a store or restaurant, with a green background.

    Circulation Desk Helper

    Support the day to day rhythm of the library.

    What you might do:
    - Check books in and out
    - Help patrons with basic questions
    - Assist with printing

    This role requires basic training and a confidentiality agreement, since it involves access to patron records.

    This is a good fit if you enjoy helping people and like being part of the daily flow of the library.

  • A young girl with shoulder-length hair selecting a book from a bookshelf in a library.

    Shelving Helper

    Keep the shelves neat, organized, and easy to browse.

    What you might do:
    - Shelve returned books
    - Shelf read to keep items in order
    - Help improve flow and spacing

    This is a quiet, satisfying role that can be done regularly or occasionally.

  • A cartoon illustration of a construction worker wearing a hard hat, holding a hammer, and working on a wooden post.

    Library Handy Person

    Help with practical tasks that keep the building running smoothly.

    What you might do:
    - Change lightbulbs
    - Clean or organize storage areas
    - Assemble or move shelves
    Help with small repairs or setup tasks

    These tasks are often occasional or project based and are especially helpful when they arise.

  • Stack of three books with one open on top, drawn in white on a dark background.

    Book Sale & Fundraising Helper

    Help Support any one of the library’s many important fundraisers.

    What you might do:
    - Sort books, or organize shelves and displays in the book sale area
    - Help create marketing material
    - Help setup for an event or cleanup afterwards

    This role can be done occasionally or on a regular basis and is well suited to people who like organizing and working independently.

  • Line drawing of two women, one sitting at a desk with a laptop, the other standing, gesturing with hands, with a lightbulb icon on a presentation board behind them.

    Program Leader or Support

    Help make programs and events successful.

    What you might do:
    - Help with setup and cleanup
    - Welcome attendees
    - Share a skill, interest, or idea through a one time program

    Some volunteers help behind the scenes. Others help or lead a single event or workshop. Both are valuable.

  • A woman reading a book to five children seated around her against a green background.

    Children's Program Helper

    Support children and families during library programs and events.

    What you might do:
    - Help with setup and cleanup after programs
    - Assist children and caregivers in finding books and materials
    - Support staff during special family events

    Typical times: Thursdays and Fridays around midday, and/or occasional special events

    This role works well for people who enjoy being around children and prefer short, clearly defined time blocks.

  • A person standing in front of bookshelves, reaching for books with both hands.

    Display and Collection Curator

    Help make the library inviting and visually engaging.

    What you might do:
    - Create themed book displays
    - Select books for seasonal or topical features
    - Help with simple signage or layout ideas

    This role is great for people with creative or merchandising instincts and can be done on a flexible schedule.

  • Illustration of a person with glasses using a computer with charts and graphs on the screen.

    Librarian's Assistant

    Support behind the scenes library work.

    What you might do:
    - Help process new books
    - Assist with discarding or repairing materials
    - Support cataloging or labeling projects

    Training is provided. This role works well for people who enjoy detail oriented work and learning how libraries function.

A Note About Privacy

The library takes patron privacy seriously.

Some volunteer roles involve access to non public information. Those roles require a simple confidentiality agreement and a brief orientation. We will always be clear about expectations before you take on a role.

How to Get Started

We use a simple, low pressure process.

Step One: Volunteer Interest Form

This form is just a starting point. It helps us understand your interests and availability.

You can share:
What kinds of roles interest you
Whether you prefer occasional or more regular involvement
Any skills or interests you would like to share

You may also email info@greensborofreelibrary.org with any questions.

Step Two: Next Steps

If it feels like a good fit, we will:
Share volunteer guidelines
Offer training if needed
Talk through scheduling and expectations

You can move forward at your own pace.

People volunteer at the library to:

  • Meet neighbors and feel connected

  • Help others access books, information, and resources

  • Use practical or creative skills in meaningful ways

  • Support a shared community space

  • Learn something new or share what they know

Every contribution helps the library remain welcoming, useful, and community centered.

If you are interested, fill out the Volunteer Interest Form below or stop by the library and talk with us. We are happy to answer questions and explore what might work for you.

Why Volunteer at the Library

Join Us for a Day

Whether it’s a few hours or a full day, your time and talents can help lift others up and move a mission forward. Sign up to help us make meaningful change.