Group of teen and adult volunteers

Volunteering

Embrace the spirit of community engagement by volunteering with us! Be a valued part of our mission to inspire lifelong learning and enrich lives while gaining meaningful experiences in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

View Volunteer Opportunities

Our Vision,
Mission & Values

Our Vision

We envision a thriving community that is multi-literate, engaged and welcoming to all.

Our Mission

We provide equitable access to lifelong learning and contribute to the wellbeing of all.

Our Values

  • Trust
    We are a trusted community resource for diverse information and perspectives where the needs and privacy of all are respected.
  • Equity
    We prioritize equity, access and inclusion in everything we do.
  • Joy of Discovery
    We spark and sustain a culture of creativity, innovation and self­-expression.
  • Future Readiness
    We support our community to address today's needs and tomorrow's potential.
  • Compassion
    We embrace the humanity in everyone and treat all with respect.
A staff person pulling books off a shelf at the John M. Harper Branch to fill holds
Main in a wheelchair volunteering at a library

Why Volunteer at WPL?

Our volunteers assist with programs and events, provide Collections support, help select books for Visiting Library Service customers and more.

  • Enhance and develop valuable skills in a positive work environment.
  • Embrace opportunities to connect with your community including library staff, fellow volunteers and library customers.
  • Contribute to our mission of providing resources for lifelong learning and creating welcoming spaces for all.
  • Discover the magic! Learn more about what happens behind-the-scenes at a public library.

Current Openings

  • Older Adult Services Advisory Group

    Older Adult Services Advisory Group

    Job Description: Volunteer with Waterloo Public Library and play a crucial role in helping to make services for older adults fresh, interesting and accessible. Your contribution will be instrumental in helping library staff plan programs and resources for older adults so their connection and experience with the library is enjoyable and fulfilling. Funded by a New Horizons grant through the Government of Ontario.

    Location: Meetings will be held at all WPL locations

    Timing: Bi-weekly meetings on Wednesday mornings until January 2025

    Estimated Start Date: Mid-October 2024

    Estimated End Date: 1 year commitment

    Number of volunteer positions available: 10

    What You’ll Do:

    • Work with library staff and other volunteers in an Older Adult Services Advisory Group to guide library programs and service development
    • Evaluate current library programs, resources and learning opportunities available to older adults at WPL
    • Suggest ideas and initiatives to help plan future library programs and resources for older adults
    • Identify ways that WPL can be more community-minded and accessible to older adults in the community

    Your Impact:

    • The work done by the advisory group will help to shape future programs and services for older adults
    • This is an opportunity to proactively provide input to support the library’s strategic plan

    What We’re Looking For:

    • Community-minded individuals that are 55 years of age or older
    • Individuals who are excited to contribute their ideas to enhance the experiences of older adults at the library
    • Comfort communicating in English will be important for this role

    Will references be required for this role? One character reference will be required.

    Applications are due by Tuesday, October 15 at 4pm.

    Apply Now
  • Visiting Library Service Support

    Visiting Library Service Support

    Due to a high volume of responses, we are no longer accepting applications for these positions. Thank you for your interest.

Apply to Be a Volunteer

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Looking for other volunteer opportunities?

Explore diverse volunteer opportunities beyond the library in the vibrant Waterloo Region. Connect with local organizations, contribute to meaningful causes, and make a positive impact on our community by discovering a range of rewarding volunteer experiences tailored to your interests.

Have questions about volunteering with us?

We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about volunteering with WPL. You can reach us at 519-886-1310 ext.186 or by emailing us at volunteer@wpl.ca.