Reading Friends Volunteer

Posted for Daventry Library

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Reading Friends is a UK-wide programme led nationally by The Reading Agency, which aims to use books and reading to help bring people together. Reading Friends can use books, magazines, newspapers, comics, poems or anything else to start conversations and connect people.

• Reading Friends volunteers meet with Reading Friends participants, either one-to-one or in a group, to use reading (in any format) as a way of sparking conversations.
• Support Northamptonshire Libraries Reading Friends service by befriending isolated library customers through telephone calls and in-library group activities. 
• Plan reading-related activities such as reading together, discussing memorable reads, or taking part in a crossword or book trivia quiz together. 
• Plan the sessions/conversations in advance, making practical arrangements to identify and select suitable materials (books, newspapers, handling objects etc.) which focus on the interests of the individual/group.
• Lead reading activities and facilitate conversation using reading materials as a basis for discussion.  Create a welcoming and open environment. 
• Facilitate the conversation, either one-to-one or in a group environment. 
• Promote library services that may benefit customers participating in Reading Friends such as Library Service at Home, Spoken Word titles, library events or eBooks, eAudio and eMagazines. 
• Be aware of and sensitive to the needs of those in the group. 
• Contribute to the evaluation of the project as required. 
• Feedback any issues or concerns to the Project Coordinator.

Skills

You do not need to have any previous experience of volunteering or working in a library.

We are looking for volunteers who : 

• Enjoy meeting people and talking to them, either one-to-one over the phone, or to multiple people in a group setting. 
• Have a friendly and approachable manner, with the ability to show patience, sensitivity and empathy with people.
  
• An interest in, and an enthusiasm for libraries and reading and the desire to share this with others
• Have the confidence to read to others
  
• Have good communication and listening skills with the ability to build rapport through conversation via telephone or face to face group activities. 
• Are reliable and trustworthy with an understanding of the need for confidentiality
• Have the ability to follow instructions and protocol, and show initiative and can work without supervision
• The willingness to undertake health and safety and safeguarding training where applicable 
• Are organised and motivated, and able to work as part of a team and also to use your own initiative. 
• Are willing to learn new knowledge and skills

Details

When do I need to be available?

Availability Details

• Age restrictions
You must be aged 18 or over to volunteer for this role.
• DBS check required
A DBS check will be carried out for those wishing to become a Reading Friends volunteer.

Visit the Reading Agency website for more information about the Reading Friends national programme.
More information can also be obtained by emailing readingfriends.libraryplus@westnorthants.gov.uk