Worcestershire’s library service offers a variety of volunteering opportunities for all ages. Opportunities include, digital champions, Library Service at Home book selection and delivery, running Connect Groups and Stay and Play sessions, supporting Summer Reading Challenge and meeting and greeting customers.

Library volunteers make a huge contribution to Worcestershire’s library services with over 350 volunteers of all ages generously gifting over 14,000 hours to Worcestershire libraries each year.

Feedback from volunteers highlights the positive impacts it has, including: improvements to their mental health and wellbeing, closer connection with their community, making friends, finding a sense of purpose, developing skills and confidence, and increasing motivation to look for work or pursue additional education or training.

A recent survey of library volunteers revealed that as a result of their experience, 92% felt more connected with their local community while 55% felt more positive about their mental health and wellbeing.

Paul explains how volunteering at The Hive has given him a new purpose in life after retirement and built his confidence and community connections.

Paul's Story

Paul volunteers at The Hive running a number of popular language café Connect Groups which bring people together to connect over a shared interest in improving their language skills.

"Volunteering at The Hive library has been an incredible experience for me. I enjoy spending time with like-minded people who share a common interest in improving their language skills in a friendly and welcoming environment."

"The language cafes I facilitate have fostered a sense of self-worth, camaraderie, and a feeling of being part of the community. I find it highly rewarding to help group members improve their language skills. The popularity of these language cafes has grown so much that I am now planning to host an additional monthly evening event at The Hive for those unable to attend during the day. The library space provided for the language cafes has created a relaxing and inspiring environment."

"The weekly meetings at The Hive have provided not only an educational environment but also a perfect opportunity to make new friends, foster a sense of belonging, and share cultural experiences."

"Overall, my volunteer work at The Hive has been a fulfilling journey, helping me and others build connections, improve skills, and feel more engaged with our community."

Other library volunteers say

"As a carer for someone struggling with their mental health, it has given me a space to do something creative and connect with others."

"After Covid lockdown I became very much a recluse with no inclination to meet people or do much of anything. I plucked up courage to become a volunteer at the library and it’s changed my life."

"Volunteering at the library has helped me to regain my confidence, meet new people and given me a new purpose in life."

"It has given me a purpose since retiring from work, a regular activity which keeps me active, involved and a sense of well-being by giving my time for the community."

"I was recently widowed and in danger of becoming unwilling to leave home. Volunteering at the library has helped me to regain my confidence, meet new people and given me a new purpose in life."

Worcestershire libraries offer a variety of volunteering opportunities.