field_text
field_text
Volunteer Policy
Approved: February 2, 2010
Revised: January 19, 2022
Revised: March 15, 2023
Revised: October 15, 2025
The purpose of this policy is to define the role of volunteers at Troy-Miami County Public Library; outline expectations; and ensure a safe, respectful, and productive environment for both volunteers and staff. Volunteers:
- Support the mission of the library by contributing their time, talents, and energy to enhance library services and programs.
- Perform services for Troy-Miami County Public Library without compensation or expectation of wages, benefits, or future employment.
- Supplement the work of library staff but do not replace paid employees.
Eligibility
- Volunteers must meet the minimum age requirement of 14 years old and require the approval of a parent or guardian if under the age of 18. Limited opportunities may be available for students ages 12-13 through special programs or events with prior approval and parental consent. Children under 12 are not eligible for individual volunteer work but may participate in family or group volunteer activities.
- Some positions may have specific age, skill, or training requirements.
- All volunteers must complete a Volunteer Application and may be required to undergo an interview, orientation, or background check, depending on the role.
Application and Selection
- Volunteers must attend a general orientation and any role-specific training.
- Volunteers will work under the direction of a designated library staff member.
- Volunteers must follow instructions, library policies, and procedures at all times.
- Volunteers who will work with anyone under 18 will be required to complete a background check. The library does not pay for the background check.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Volunteers will be assigned tasks that support library operations, programs, or events. Examples include preparing crafts, helping at events, clerical work, and groundskeeping.
- Volunteers may have their photograph taken as part of library promotions.
- Volunteers are asked to wear a name badge that identifies them as a volunteer.
- Volunteers may not access patron records or perform duties restricted to library staff.
Termination of Volunteer Service
Volunteer service may be terminated for reasons including, but not limited to:
- Failure to follow library policies or staff instructions
- Inappropriate conduct or behavior
- Repeated absences without notice
- Any action that compromises the safety, reputation, or operation of the library
Groups
- There may be exceptions to this policy for groups of volunteers if approved by the director on a case-by-case basis.
Insurance and Liability
Volunteers are not employees and are not covered under workers’ compensation. Troy-Miami County Public Library assumes no liability for personal injury, loss, or damage to personal property while volunteering.