As a result of budget and staffing cuts, Folsom Public Library Director Katy Curl is recruiting customer-service oriented volunteers to help keep the Georgia Murray Building open on Sundays.
Curl is seeking friendly and dependable volunteers who can commit to working as library docents from 1 to 5 p.m. one Sunday a month. The docents will work under the direction of library staff to welcome patrons, provide directional assistance and assist with self-check machines, copiers, print stations and library computers. The docents will also help patrons with basic catalog searches.
“We will provide training for all docents so they understand library policies and procedures,” says Curl. “It would be helpful if volunteers have a basic knowledge of the layout of the library, as well as some experience with office equipment and computer technology.”
While Sunday is the least busy day of the week at the library, Curl hopes to remain open to serve as a gathering place for families. “In these tough economic times, the library is a free place for families to relax and read together. Many stop in after visiting the Zoo Sanctuary or the park and we hope to keep our doors open to accommodate them.”
The Georgia Murray Building at 411 Stafford St. will remain open Tuesday through Sunday with business hours reduced from 44 to 41 per week. The Norman R. Siefkin Library at Vista del Lago high School is scheduled to be open to the public and students Tuesday through Friday, with business hours reduced from 30 to 27 hours per week. Both libraries will be closed on Mondays.
To volunteer to serve as a library docent, visit http://californialibraries.volunteermatch.org to begin the application process, or contact Library Supervisor Greta Galindo at (916) 985-8195 or ggalindo@folsom.ca.us.