Wondering about volunteering for the Library? We depend on volunteers to run our popular community libraries. Find out what it's like in this interview with Pauline, a retired primary school teacher who volunteers with us at Rosaire Court Community Library.
One of four community libraries on the island, Rosaire is open to both residents and the public, providing a wide selection of books, audiobooks and large print books. It's open every Monday morning 10.00-12.00. You can borrow items if you're a member of the Guille-Allès Library - and if you're not a member already, you can join there.
Pauline gives us an insight into her role at Rosaire:
My job as a library volunteer is varied, from displaying a selection of books on the tables, to sorting and packing returns, ordering requests, and notifying and talking to borrowers.
Before Rosaire Court Community Library was established I could no longer make it to the Guille-Allès Library, and getting to Western Community Library was difficult as I'm not very mobile. As a resident of Rosaire Court & Gardens (an assisted living community), I wrote to the Guille-Allès and asked if we could have a library here to open to the immediate community. They were keen, and so here we are!
I enjoy the camaraderie and banter and just listening to the variety of topics discussed over a cup of tea or coffee while readers browse our selection.
I love filling the shelves and browsing through the books. I would love a permanent space at Rosaire Court, but we share our room with a lot of other activities. I enjoy the camaraderie and banter and just listening to the variety of topics discussed over a cup of tea or coffee while readers browse our selection.
It's the ideal job if you enjoy books and people. The Guille-Allès are great to work with. They don’t fuss and are friendly and helpful. We always look forward to them coming with new books. My knowledge of how a library really works has grown and I’ve been impressed by the depth of knowledge I’ve gained.
I find I still use the same skills to manage the readers of Rosaire as I did my reception class at school, as they can be a rowdy bunch! Working with the books keeps me fit and keeps my memory and brain refreshed.
We are open to the public too, but not many come at the moment. It would be lovely to welcome more people!
I find I still use the same skills to manage the readers of Rosaire as I did my reception class at school, as they can be a rowdy bunch! Working with the books keeps me fit and keeps my memory and brain refreshed.
If you'd like to volunteer at one of our community libraries, email Jackie at [email protected], give her a ring on 720392, or fill in this online form.