Pablo Creek Branch Excels in Volunteer Efficiency

Pablo Creek Branch Library had 40 volunteers (more than twice that of other JPL locations), who worked 5,477 hours, FY2009! PCR also retains many of their volunteers over a long period of time. Consequently, we asked Gail Blumberg, Library Associate, Senior, and Volunteer Coordinator there, to share some ideas on one of this year’s Performance Objectives: "Increase the library’s capacity to serve the public with an improved volunteer recruitment and retention program. Identify best practices; evaluate current practices; address barriers & increase current (FY09) level of volunteer hours by 2%.”

Ms. Blumberg said Pablo Creek’s location provides good access to retirees and students, who are more apt to volunteer. PCR has many volunteers that have proven to be a good fit. Some have even become part-time employees. She realizes this might not be the case at all locations.

The volunteer coordinator must combine organizational and communication skills in order to run a successful volunteer program. At PCR, for example, a weekly schedule is posted that includes volunteers’ names, duties and hours of service. Employees and volunteers can consult this weekly schedule as needed. This results in better planning and a positive work environment.

Where communication is concerned, she is cognizant that volunteers and staff feel free to voice their needs and opinions to her. She assigns specific duties to volunteers, such as processing holds, weeding newspapers, or reshelving in the teen, children’s or adult areas.

Each prospective volunteer is interviewed before being assigned to any work area. During this time, Ms. Blumberg tries to match the volunteer to the best work for him/her. For instance, she finds out if older volunteers can stand for a length of time shelving. If they cannot, they might be assigned to making phone calls for customer holds. This process has been beneficial in the retention of volunteers. PCR has volunteers who have been there since it opened in 2004.

She is glad to hear that HR is developing guidelines for a “trial period” for adult volunteers. This will allow both volunteers and library staff to decide whether or not individual placements will work for all concerned.