As we seek to improve access to collections and better serve our communities, we often find our time and resources limited. One promising solution is to call upon volunteers. What resources are there to aid us in doing so? Past research on library volunteers includes: (1) a longstanding debate on costs and benefits, and (2) a public-library centric discussion of volunteer programs and projects. There is a need for further research on how theological libraries of various sizes can develop volunteer programs that will benefit both libraries and volunteers.
This presentation will address that gap by exploring the growth of a volunteer and docent program at Pitts Theology Library. To enhance access to special collections, and welcome the community into its new building and exhibit gallery, Pitts Theology Library has found an opportunity for further volunteer involvement. Using this example as a case study, we will outline the steps a theological library can take to develop a fruitful volunteer program – from strategic planning and communication with staff, to identifying rewarding roles, and recruiting, training, supervising, and motivating volunteers. We will then analyze the benefits of a volunteer program. Finally, we will explore resources and technologies that theological libraries large and small can use to develop mutually enriching volunteer programs.
