New Buildings Bring New Volunteer Opportunities To Library

New, improved Dayton Metro Library facilities mean new opportunities for volunteers, and Volunteer Services Manager Dave Hicks is up to the task. Hicks has added eight new volunteer positions since he was hired into the position in September, 2015, and is open to suggestions and ideas for more.

“I enjoy hearing feedback from staff and volunteers about their experiences,” said Hicks.

Already in 2016, 2,445 volunteer hours have been contributed. With two new facilities scheduled to open in Brookville and New Lebanon, more volunteers will be needed as Greeters and Program Helpers.

New volunteer positions at the Dayton Metro Library include:

Conversation Partner helps new Americans practice English conversation skills
Reading Buddies offer one-on-one reading encouragement to children.
Library Mascot wears the child-friendly Cosmo costume at Library and community events.
Maker Kit Helpers share their skills and interests during labs and activities using 3D printers, circuits, computers, kitchen tools, textiles and more.
New Facilities Greeters welcome patrons to their new Libraries, offer assistance with new technology, directions and information.

“Currently our most pressing needs are for help with the Summer Meal Program at our new Northwest Branch Library,” said Hicks. “We need volunteers to assist Library staff in distributing meals, set up and clean up for this program which takes place four days each week.”

Hicks has worked for the Dayton Metro Library since 1997 in various roles. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Wright State University, and also earned Masters degrees in Human Resources Management and Library and Information Science.

Summer is a busy time at all Dayton Metro Libraries. Activities keep children and teens engaged during the school break, and the Library’s Summer Challenge awards prizes for reading and program attendance.

“Volunteers are needed to help with all the programs and Summer Challenge details,” said Hicks. “When the New Lebanon and Brookville Branches later this year, we’ll need Greeters to welcome patrons to the new facilities.”

In the fall, Homework Helper volunteers will be active, along with Conversation Partners and Reading Buddies.

A complete list of volunteer opportunities and online application is available at http://daytonmetrolibrary.org./about-us/volunteer.

Questions about volunteering can be directed to Dave Hicks at (937) 496-8638 or emailed to [email protected]