Volunteer Impact
The volunteer program of London Public Library was created to support the value-added programs and services that are vital to our community.
Last year, our team of 508 amazing volunteers contributed 17,019 hours of supporting our community.
Our READ mentors have helped 255 children discover a passion for reading.
Our English Conversation mentors helped 200 English language learners become more confident in job interviews, school and in the community.
Our Tech Tutors have answered over 4,600 questions and our ushers helped us welcome back in person entertainment in Wolf Performance Hall with gusto!
Volunteers have helped out in many other ways this year that make a difference to the Library and to those who we serve. We can’t thank you enough for all that you do!
Apply to Volunteer: Applications are Open
Applications are open at specific times of the year, when positions are available.
Before applying, it will help your application if you take time to scroll down this page and learn more about the specific positions available and the Frequently Asked Questions section at the bottom.
If you feel that your interests and skills are a good match after you have reviewed this information, we encourage you to apply! Click the link below to go to our volunteer application centre.
READ Volunteer
Session runs from September to May
READ volunteers help one child (primary school age registered in at least grade 1) to discover the joy and confidence that being a reader brings. For one hour, once each week during the school year, our READ volunteers play board games, try out a new craft or experiment, tell jokes, write stories and read with their young partner.
Children's Activity Volunteer
Many of our programs and events for children and families rely on volunteers for support. Children's Activity Volunteers work with staff to welcome participants and show children how to play a game, complete an activity or enjoy a craft during a library program. Volunteers may also help count attendance, take tickets, set up and clean up and prepare materials in advance, depending on the program. Tell us your talents! We also look for volunteers with specific skills or experience with activities such as playing chess, jewellery making, Lego building, sewing, face painting and much more.
Beyond the Book Mentor
Beyond the Book is a virtual mentoring program designed to help students in grades 8–12 build confidence in literacy and communication while exploring future pathways beyond high school.
Volunteer Role:
Post-secondary student mentors support high school participants.
- Commitment: 2 hours per week during the school term
- Term 1: September–January
- Term 2: February–June
- Age Requirement: 18–24
TAG (Teen Advisory Group)
TAG members meet monthly to discuss library programs, services, and issues affecting teens. It’s a great opportunity to earn community service hours while building leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
Fall 2026 Locations:
- Central Library
- Pond Mills Library
- Stoney Creek Library
- Commitment: 2 hours per month (school year)
- Age Requirement: 14–18
Chess Volunteers (Youth Program)
Volunteers help create a welcoming and engaging environment for young chess players of all skill levels.
Responsibilities may include:
- Welcoming participants
- Supporting a positive and inclusive atmosphere
- Tracking attendance
- Assisting with setup and cleanup
- Sharing knowledge of chess
- Commitment: 2 hours per week (evenings/weekends, varies by location)
- Age Requirement: 14+
English Conversation Mentor, One-on-One
Session runs from October to June
It takes a lot of practice to feel confident speaking a new language. Our English Conversation Mentors provide support and encouragement to an adult who wants to practice their new English skills in a casual, social situation. The emphasis is on social conversation, not on teaching so our pairs talk about their families, food, London and whatever else they may have in common. Our volunteers find this program hugely rewarding and many new friendships have been made by the participants in this program.
Ushers at Central Library, Wolf Hall
Wolf Performance Hall at the Central Library regularly hosts films, concerts, lectures and community events. Volunteer Ushers get to enjoy these presentations while also helping people to and from their seats, ensuring safety guidelines are followed, greeting visitors, handing out programs and remaining in the Hall during a performance. Training is provided.
Technology Tutor
Many of us have helped a parent or friend to set up an email account, download a file or fill out an online application form. Tech Tutors offer friendly assistance with basic computer tasks to people using our public computers. This services is offered in most library locations.
Adult Program Volunteer
Adult program volunteers support staff in delivering engaging programs and events.
Responsibilities may include:
- Welcoming participants
- Setup and cleanup
- Preparing materials
- Sharing specialized skills or leading activities
We are especially looking for volunteers with skills or interests in:
- Knitting, sewing, paper crafts, and other creative activities
- Board games and card games
- Potential support in Central Labs
Commitment: Varies by program (minimum 4 months)
Age Requirement: 19+
Frequently Asked Questions
Volunteering FAQ
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- A link to apply or to attend an information session will be posted at the top of this page when specific volunteer opportunities are available. This depends on the time of year, with many opportunities starting in the fall of each year.
- If there is no link to apply or attend an information session, this means that there are no opportunities available currently.
- If you need assistance with applying, library staff will be able to assist you.
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After you apply, we will contact you about the next steps. These steps can often take several weeks.
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Volunteers at the Library help us to serve the people who use our services. Volunteers work closely with the community in roles such as literacy mentors, technology tutors and program and event support.
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You can apply to volunteer once you are 14 years old.
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It depends on the position and your schedule, but most volunteers earn a few hours each month if they volunteer regularly.
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Some Volunteer positions require a Police Record Check. Please do not start this process until after you’ve met with staff, as it may not be a requirement of the position you’re interested in.