Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the San Mateo County Libraries! Volunteers support and enhance the Library’s services to the diverse communities at each of our 13 locations.
Teen Volunteers
The Library welcomes teen volunteers age 14 and older for a minimum commitment of 6 months or 1 semester. A background check is required of teen volunteers age 16 and older. Background checks are done at no cost to the volunteer. Results are kept confidential and typically take 3-6 weeks. Background check results are required before volunteer service can begin. Teen volunteer opportunities vary by location.
Adult Volunteers
The Library has volunteer opportunities for adults age 18 and older with a minimum commitment of 6 months or 1 semester. To ensure our libraries are safe for all members of the community, the Library conducts a background check of all volunteers age 16 and older. Background checks are done at no cost to the volunteer. Results are kept confidential and typically take 3-6 weeks. Background check results are required before volunteer service can begin. Adult volunteer opportunities vary by location.
Opportunities for Teens and Adults
Maker Volunteer
Do you love to tinker, craft or problem solve? We are looking for your help in supporting our communities to use library technology (ebooks, computers, etc.) and makerspace services (3D printing, sewing, virtual reality, etc.). Get hands-on in working with library customers to access the full array of library technology and crafting opportunities available to them at our libraries. No previous tech experience is required; training on makerspace technology will be provided.
Commitment is for an average of 6 hrs a month, for at least 6 months.
Opportunities for Adults
English Conversation Club & ESL Book Club
Help members of our community practice English in a fun and safe environment. Come chat about interesting topics, bond with members of your community, and lend your fluent English skills to help language learners improve their speaking and reading. We are now offering English Conversation Clubs in some branches, and ESL Book Club, online. Questions about this volunteer opportunity? Contact us, opens a new window!
Ready to be an English-language support star?
Apply now!, opens a new window
Adult Literacy Tutor
Be part of changing an adult learner’s life! Volunteer to help an adult improve their reading and writing. No previous teaching experience or educational background is required. We provide all training and materials necessary to become a successful, high-impact volunteer. Learn more, opens a new window about this meaningful volunteer opportunity.
Commitment is for 2 hours per week for at least 6 months. Tutors meet with learners in a safe and caring online learning environment. Questions about this volunteer opportunity? Contact us!
Ready to make a big impact in your community?
Apply now!, opens a new window
Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries
Interested in supporting the Foundation as a board or committee volunteer? Learn more, opens a new window!
Friends of the Library
Interested in being a Friends of the Library volunteer and helping with the book sales or events? Look at our Friends page to learn more about these support organizations.
Please note:
- There may be a waiting period before an opening is available for a requested role, location, and time.
- For applicants 16 and older, fingerprinting and background check results are required before volunteer service can begin
- Interested in a group event? Please contact us to coordinate.
- To apply to teach a class, lead an activity or provide other programming, please see the Propose an Experience page for more information and to submit a proposal.
- For all volunteer opportunities, we ask for a 6-month or 1-semester commitment at a minimum due to the required training.
