Looking for a meaningful and fun way to get involved in the community this summer? The River Forest Public Library is now accepting applications for two volunteer opportunities: Tween/Teen Volunteers and Book Buddies.
Tween/Teen Volunteers assist library staff with a variety of tasks, including craft preparation, light cleaning, and special projects. This is a great opportunity for students who want community service hours or are simply curious about what it’s like to work in a library.
Our new Book Buddies program pairs volunteers with young readers entering grades 1–3. Volunteers help children choose books, listen as they read aloud, and participate in group activities. Book Buddies focuses on building confidence and nurturing a love of reading—this is not a tutoring program.
The River Forest Public Library is proud to offer volunteer opportunities that support our mission and advance our strategic goals.
Volunteer Requirements
- Students must be entering grades 5–12
- Volunteers must be under 18 years old
- River Forest residents only
- Participation in an orientation session is required
- A parent or guardian must sign the Volunteer Release and Waiver Agreement
Additional Requirements by Program
Middle School/Teen Volunteers
- Must be available for one 1-hour shift each week during the summer
Book Buddies
- Must commit to one time slot for the month of July
- Tuesdays, 3–5 PM or
- Wednesdays, 5–7 PM
Applications are available here for Tween/Teen Volunteers and here for Book Buddies.
Completed forms may be emailed to volunteer@riverforestlibrary.org or dropped off in person at the Library.
The deadline to apply for summer 2026 is Friday, May 1.