Volunteering

How do I volunteer for the library?

Our primary volunteer opportunities are for students in middle school and high school. These opportunities are open only to Piscataway residents.

Volunteering Opportunities for Teens

Teens volunteering

When you volunteer at the Piscataway Public Library, you will:

  • Learn new skills
  • Gain volunteer experience and earn community service hours
  • Make a positive difference in your community

Please note the following requirements to apply for our teen volunteer program:

  • All volunteers must reside in Piscataway
  • All volunteers must be currently enrolled in grades 6-12 and be at least 12 years of age
  • All volunteers must sign and abide by a Teen Volunteer Code of Conduct, provided at the training session

Adopt-a-Shelf Program for Middle School Students

Teen dusting

Middle school students currently enrolled in grades 6-8 and at least 12 years of age may apply for our Adopt-a-Shelf (AAS) program. Adopt-a-Shelf volunteers help maintain the teen spaces and collections, advise on new material purchases, and assist with programs. These are regularly scheduled volunteer hours. If accepted to the program, teens will complete a training session to review basic guidelines and view a required training video. Applications for Session 3 will be accepted beginning on January 12. Please visit this page on that date to apply.

Questions can be directed to our Teen Services Librarians at teens@piscatawaylibrary.org. Please put “Volunteer AAS” in the subject line. 

Volunteer Opportunities for High School Students

Teen cleaning

High school students in grades 9-12 and at least 14 years of age must attend an orientation session to volunteer at the library. At the completion of the session, which includes a mandatory training video, teens that meet all our requirements will be able to enroll in our volunteer program. Volunteer tasks include assisting with library programs and special projects. Please check our calendar for upcoming session dates. Latecomers will not be admitted to the training sessions.

Questions can be directed to our Teen Services Librarians at teens@piscatawaylibrary.org. Please put “Volunteer” in the subject line. 

Volunteer Opportunities for Adults

Volunteer with the Friends of Piscataway Public Library

Adults who are interested in volunteering to support the Piscataway Public Library may find opportunities with the Friends of Piscataway Public Library. If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities with the Friends, please email us at friends@piscatawaylibrary.org. 

Volunteer as an ESL Teacher

Piscataway Public Library offers free English as a second language (ESL) classes for adults learning English. If you are interested in volunteering to teach a class at the Library, please fill out this application. Volunteers must have a teaching degree or a certificate from a literacy organization. Volunteers must also be fluent in English.