"WHO ME? WHAT CAN I DO? I DON’T HAVE THE TIME!"

The Library has a variety of volunteer opportunities that I’d like to tell you about! Before I do that I’d like to tell you a little background of the volunteer program.

For many years we used volunteers in the Children’s area helping us with crafts, programs and putting away materials. Many of these were Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts working towards their merit badges. In 1982, the Library Board established a program with policies using volunteers. These volunteers would help us with typing, recording for dial a story, “slipping books” as we called checking in books, decorating the library, selecting books for homebound patrons, and spring cleaning of the bookmobile. We started with about 15 volunteers who helped us 136 hours the first year.

As the years progressed, so did our program. We now have about 150 volunteers who help us about 3,200 hours annually plus the Friends of the Library’s membership to support us. Volunteers can do long projects, short projects or one time projects. We match our need with their skills, then, after training, they can usually come in at their own schedule. Our volunteers, from children to senior adults, provide inspiration for us, are fun and great helpers.

Now, back to my original comment about not having time to volunteer…. just look at our Volunteer Interest Survey, or stop on by our Wausau Headquarters and browse the "Volunteer Job Descriptions" (available at the 1st Floor Information Desk). You might be surprised at what you find! Some of our volunteers come for a short or one-time project and keep coming back because they enjoy it so much!

If you’re interested in being a volunteer at the library, print and fill out the survey and the application form. You can drop them off at Wausau or any Branch Library or mail them to us at the address below. I will contact you as soon as possible.

Our staff and volunteers work together making our library a gateway for enrichment to individuals and the community!

Phone: (715) 261-7215, Fax: (715) 261-7210, Email: (use the contact form above)
Office: MCPL - Wausau Headquarters, 300 N. 1st St. Wausau, WI 54403