Why I Volunteered at The Globe

At long last retirement arrived.  Lots to do and places to go.  However, I soon felt that I had some spare time so decided that volunteering was the way ahead.  After looking at various options I learnt that my local library needed help if it was to remain open.  This sounded ideal.  Surely, I could spare an odd hour or so to put a few books away, but I did worry in case it was too boring.

After completing the appropriate paperwork and attending the required training I was ready to go though I felt very apprehensive especially as my computer skills are basic to say the least.

What a surprise it has turned out to be.  Tasks are varied and interesting.  Even my limited computer skills are not an issue as there is always someone there to help.  The other volunteers are very friendly and willing to share their knowledge with each other.  The permanent staff are always there if we hit any snags and they have unlimited patience and an amazing ability to answer the same questions over and over again yet still keep smiling.

I did worry about making mistakes but as a senior librarian told me in the early days “it is only a missing book not a life lost“.  This certainly helped me to relax more and put things into perspective.  The library users are all very understanding too and never complain if we are sometimes slow to sort out issues. 

I enjoy the variety, the laughter (always plenty of that) the biscuits, the pick of all those books and the company of my new friends.  Becoming a library volunteer was certainly the right decision for me.  I smile now when I remember that I once worried about getting bored!