Volunteer Policy

The Plainfield Public Libraries recognize that volunteers are a valuable resource for the library.  Their energy and talents help the Library meet its commitment to providing quality service to the public.  Since volunteers enhance, rather than replace adequate staffing, the Plainfield Public Libraries shall make use of the services of interested volunteers to supplement and not replace the work done by library staff.  Volunteer services aid the library in making the best use of its fiscal resources and help connect the library to other community groups and organizations.

Definitions

Volunteer:  A volunteer shall be considered as any individual, 18 years or older, who assists with tasks and/or projects at the Plainfield Public Libraries, without remuneration.

Youth volunteer: A youth volunteer shall be considered any individual age 14-18, who assists with tasks and/or projects at the Plainfield Public Libraries.

The Plainfield Public Libraries value the time and the interest of citizens who would like to volunteer.  All individuals 18 years or other, interested in volunteering at the Plainfield Public Libraries must complete an application form and a New Hampshire State Police criminal background check application.  The Plainfield Public Libraries will cover the cost of the criminal background check.  Prospective volunteers under the age of 18 must have signed permission for their parent or legal guardian.

Plainfield Public Library volunteers are bound by the rules contained in all Library policies and guidelines, especially those that relate to patron privacy and confidentiality. Library volunteers are recognized by the public as representatives of the Library and will be guided by the same work and behavior policies as employees.  Anyone wishing to move or alter library property, initiate or be involved in library programming or events, or work in spaces not available to the public must request permission from the director in advance of working or advertising such activities.  Volunteers approved to work in non-public spaces may not touch anything that does not involve tasks approved by the director.

Nothing in this policy shall be deemed to create a contract between the volunteer and the Plainfield Public Libraries or the Town of Plainfield.  Both the volunteer and the Plainfield Public Libraries have the right to terminate the volunteer's association with the Library at any time, for any reason, with or without cause.  Neither the Town of Plainfield nor the Plainfield Public Libraries will provide any medical or health benefits for any volunteer.

The Town of Plainfield maintains a strong equal opportunity policy.  Volunteers are recruited, placed, trained, recognized, and dismissed on the basis of competence, job performance, and library need without regard to race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or political affiliation.

Youth volunteers: The Plainfield Public Libraries follow New Hampshire and United States Department of Labor child labor law and recommended procedures as it relates to youth volunteers.  The Plainfield Public Libraries require proof of age for all youth volunteers.

Last Revised