For volunteers

The National Library of Australia welcomes and values volunteers

The Volunteer Program at the National Library of Australia has been operating since 1989. The Program offers the community an opportunity to play an active role in supporting and promoting the work of the Library.   The Library values the important contribution that volunteers make both through exhibition guiding and behind-the-scenes projects.

The Library accepts volunteers, at its discretion, who are enthusiastic and committed to the Library’s programs and goals.  Volunteers must agree to work under the direction of the Library, consistent with its regulations and policies.  In return for contributing their skills and time to completing special projects and tasks, the Library offers volunteers the opportunity to gain knowledge, experience and satisfaction from involvement with one of Australia's leading collecting and cultural institutions.  

Volunteers are only engaged in tasks that, without their assistance, would not be undertaken or would not be completed for a considerable period of time.  Volunteers are not used as an alternative to paid employment or to displace paid staff. Paid employment at the National Library is not a likely outcome of volunteering.

There are two categories of volunteers:

The Volunteer Guides Program

The Volunteer Guides Program is for volunteers who are interested in working with the Library’s exhibitions.  They need to have experience in dealing with the public and an interest in and commitment to learning about the Library’s collections and the exhibitions that are on show at the Library. Volunteer Guides are often asked questions about the Library in general and must also be prepared to learn about the functions and role of the Library in a broad sense.

Behind-the-scenes Volunteers

Behind-the-scenes volunteers may be placed in one of a variety of areas across the Library such as Maps, Pictures, Asian Collections and Manuscripts.  The type of tasks volunteers may be asked to perform include sorting, identifying and listing collection material, scanning and researching. They will be allocated a supervisor within the area who will guide and assist them with their special project.

How to volunteer

If you are interested in volunteering at the National Library of Australia, fill in our online application form or contact the Volunteers Coordinator at :

Telephone: (02) 6262 1634
E-mail: volunteering@nla.gov.au

The National Library of Australia receives many applications from people wishing to volunteer. Please note that places are limited. We will only be in contact with you if there is a potential placement.

 

 

 

 

 

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