Library Volunteers - Worth the Effort!

As libraries face times of tightening budgets, demanding patrons, and limited personnel, they are forced to rely more and more on the help of volunteers for their survival. Although the majority of these volunteers are qualified and competent, there is always the occasional "problem" volunteer who lacks either the talent, commitment, personality, or time to do the job. Out of necessity, librarians must develop viable, cost effective methods of managing volunteer programs. This guide provides information on how to implement and manage successful volunteer programs. Issues such as recruitment and placement, training, development and evaluation, and the "problem" volunteer are discussed. Sample applications, advertisements, press releases, job descriptions, and skills and aptitude tests are also included.