How Do I Become a Volunteer?

Welcome Volunteers!

This information is for those interested in volunteer opportunities at the Cedar Mill Community Library Association, which includes the Cedar Mill Community Library, the Bethany Branch, and the Second Edition Resale Shop.  It gives you some answers to commonly asked questions about our Volunteer Program.  Please think seriously about what you wish to contribute as well as what you hope to gain in becoming a Cedar Mill Community Library Association (CMCLA) volunteer.

What time commitment is expected of me as a Cedar Mill Community Library volunteer?

We have both on-going volunteer positions and episodic (or occasional) positions.

On-Going:  Most of our volunteer positions require a 2 to 4 hour shift once a week.  The length of the shift may vary from department to department or be dependant upon library usage.  For almost all positions, a weekly time commitment is needed over a minimum of a three to six month period.

Episodic:  For those who are only interested in volunteering for a few hours, special projects will be available for 2 to 4 hours one Saturday afternoon a month.

Do I have to have a set schedule?

Yes!  Over 800 volunteers help with the operation of the Association, and are vital to day to day operations.  Some jobs require the use of specific work areas or equipment, especially computer terminals, and need to be shared by both paid staff and volunteers, so scheduling is very important. 

How old do I need to be before I can volunteer?

Applicants who are 13 years of age and up will be considered for volunteer positions. Under 13 require a parent or guardian partner, performing the same job.  Volunteers must be 14 in the Second Edition Resale Shop.  Some 12 year olds assist in Children's Services for the Summer Reading Program.

Does the Library accept Court Ordered Community Service Volunteers?

Call for more information:  Kevin Kelley, 503-644-0043 ext 111.  Limited staff resources don't allow for the training and supervision of volunteers who only need to volunteer for a few hours.  Cases will be looked at individually.

I'm interested in volunteering.  What happens next?

• Fill out the Volunteer Application online and submit it, or print a copy of the PDF application and fax or mail it to the Cedar Mill Library or drop it off at the Cedar Mill Library or Bethany Branch.
• You will be called to set a time for an interview.
• Successful candidates will attend a scheduled orientation prior to reporting to their volunteer assignment.
• After orientation, you will meet with the volunteer supervisor of the department where you will volunteer.  At that time a training and work schedule will be set up

How long does it take before I can start volunteering?

Once accepted into the program, it takes 1 to 3 weeks to be placed and begin training.

Have questions or need information?

At the Cedar Mill Community Library Association, we strive to provide a meanigful and enjoyable volunteer experience for those who wish to share their time and skills with us.  Thank you for your interest in our program.

Contact:  Kevin Kelley, CVA, Head of Volunteer Services

• Phone:  503-644-0043 ext 111
• Email:  KevinKe@wccls.org
• Fax:  503-644-3964
• Address:  12505 NW Cornell Road, Portland, OR 97229