Teen Volunteers

For information for adult volunteers, click here.
Please note: If you need to earn volunteer hours by a specific date, please contact us to make a plan at least 4 weeks before your deadline. We cannot accommodate last-minute requests for volunteer time.

The Scotch Plains Public Library benefits from the work of many dedicated and enthusiastic teen volunteers every year. If you are a Scotch Plains or Fanwood student in grades 6-12 and would like to get involved in volunteering with us, we would love to have your help!

Read on to learn more about what our volunteers do. If you decide you are interested, the volunteer guidelines and application are below! If you have any questions, email us at [email protected].

What SPPL teen volunteers do:

1. Teen Advisory Board

The Teen Advisory Board (TAB) is run by teens. It’s a great way to build leadership and teamwork skills, and it’s the perfect opportunity for you if you would like to be involved in the creation, planning, and running of the library programs or services that you want to see offered to the community. (In other words – you can create your own volunteering projects at the library!)

TAB meets once a month. Click here to learn more about the board, what’s been discussed at past meetings, and when the next meeting will be.

2. Shelf-reading

Shelf-reading is the process of checking library shelves to make sure each book is exactly where it’s supposed to be. Shelf-reading volunteers must successfully pass a one-hour training session before being assigned their weekly shifts. Click here for more information.

3. Assorted events and projects 

Teens who have applied to volunteer will receive emails about other kinds of opportunities as they become available. Volunteers may sign up for specific tasks such as preparing craft supplies or helping at kids’ programs. 

Volunteering guidelines:

What you can expect from us:

• We will work with you to resolve problems with scheduling or assigned tasks.
• We will assist you in any difficulties with library users.
• We will provide documentation of your community service hours upon request.  

What we expect from you:

Volunteering is very similar to having a job – you must be on time, courteous, and enthusiastic. We ask that you try your best to follow our volunteer guidelines and give your best effort when completing a task.

As a teen volunteer for SPPL, you must agree to the following guidelines: 

• I will keep track of my schedule and arrive on time for my shifts. 
• If I cannot make my scheduled shift, I will call the library or e-mail [email protected] at least one day in advance or as soon as possible.
• I will make sure my ride home arrives before the library closes.
• I will refer library users to the staff when asked a question not directly related to my duties.
• I will not bring food or drinks into the library, with the exception of water bottles with caps.
• I will keep my cell phone on vibrate and will not make or receive calls or send texts that are not emergencies.
• I will wear appropriate attire to the library. No bare feet, bathing suits, etc. 
• At the discretion of the library staff, I may be asked to stop volunteering if I fail to follow these guidelines or if I have repeated call-outs or no-shows. 

Apply here:

Once you submit your application, your email address will be added to our general volunteering list and you will be notified whenever new opportunities open up. If you are interested in the Teen Advisory Board or shelf-reading, please refer to the first part of this page for information. Please note: Due to the volume of applications we receive, you may not receive an individual emailed response to your application unless you contact us with a specific question or request.

Your Information –

Must NOT be a school address.
Must be a Scotch Plains or Fanwood library card.
Would you like to share your personal pronouns? Do you have any questions about accessibility or requests for accommodations?

Emergency Contact Information –

Commitment –