Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Richardson Public Library.  Volunteering at RPL is a fun and unique way to give back to your community, meet new people, and learn more about the Library.  Our volunteers make a difference by enhancing the programs and assisting the departments so that we may offer a pleasing experience to all of our patrons.

VOLUNTEER ELIGIBILITY

Volunteers must complete a Richardson Public Library Volunteer Application and will be required to pass a criminal background check before being accepted into the volunteer program.  Additional volunteer eligibility and conditions are outlined in this document.

• Minimum volunteer age is 18. Individuals entering grades 7-12 are eligible to volunteer by applying to join the Teen Advisory Board (TAB).  Parental consent is required.
• Court-appointed community service is only granted to teens, ages 16 and 17, who were convicted by the Richardson Municipal Court for alcohol or tobacco related offenses.  These applicants are only allowed a maximum of 2 hours of work per week.  No exceptions are allowed.
• Volunteers are not eligible to be placed in a volunteer capacity that creates a perceived conflict of interest.
• The Richardson Public Library reserves the right to accept, decline or release any volunteer in the program at any time.

COMPUTER USAGE

Computer equipment, including printers, etc., if provided to volunteers, is to be used for Library business only.  Access to the City of Richardson computer network and files will be specifically limited to the relevance of the volunteer's assignment.  Volunteers may be required to sign an agreement stating that computers will be used for Library business only and not for personal use.  Volunteers are not authorized to modify existing computer software on any Library computers or equipment.

VOLUNTEER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Volunteers have the right to expect meaningful assignments and a working partnership with Library employees.  Volunteers should also expect clear and specific instructions and ongoing training and supervision.

Volunteers will be expected to participate in training, accept supervision, observe Library guidelines and maintain confidentiality.  Volunteers are also expected to dress accordingly, taking into consideration the work to be performed, the environment and safety.  Volunteers must be dependable in attendance, punctuality and performance of duties.  Volunteers must notify the Volunteer Coordinator if they cannot fulfill the expected work schedule.  Volunteers may not drive or be transported in City-owned vehicles without prior authorization from a Library supervisor.  Volunteers must work harmoniously with Library staff, citizens, customers and other volunteers.  Volunteers should listen sympathetically to customers, never offering personal opinions, and should avoid discussing personal problems in public.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

Criminal background checks will be conducted before an individual can volunteer with the City of Richardson.  Thereafter, periodic checks may be conducted on an annual basis.  An individual's application to volunteer will be denied if a background check reveals that the applicant has been convicted of any crime listed below:

• Violence, or threats of violence
• Crimes against children
• Weapons offenses
• Sexual offenses
• Theft, Class B Misdemeanor or above
• Burglary

Any individual who is actively registered with the City of Richardson to volunteer, and who receives any conviction listed above, must inform the Volunteer Coordinator immediately.  If an active volunteer receives any conviction listed above, he/she will no longer be eligible to volunteer at Richardson Public Library.  

 Here is how you can get started:

• Complete and submit the Volunteer Application.  
• We will then begin to process your paperwork.
• After processing, we will contact you for an interview.

If you have any questions about the process, please contact Scott Thomson.