Each summer, hundreds of teens volunteer at JCPL by signing patrons up for the Library Summer Challenge, handing out prizes, assisting with summer camps and sharing book recommendations. If you've been to any of our locations this past month, you probably saw them near the entrance, greeting patrons as they enter.
"Saying hi to everyone that walks in is hard," Shjon, one of the teen volunteers, says with a laugh.
Oliver, another volunteer, jumps in: "It's easy for me. I'm a pretty social dude. I'm the one calling out, 'Hey, you want to sign up for the Summer Challenge?' to everyone who comes in."
"Talking to people is good practice," Anson adds. "Some days, it's easier than others."
Like many teens, Anson sought out JCPL to complete volunteer hours for National Junior Honor Society. This nationwide group encourages students to develop skills in scholarship, service, leadership, character and citizenship through academic pursuits, volunteerism and civic projects.
Anson chose JCPL because a friend was also volunteering here, but many teens form new friendships during their volunteer shifts.
"Meeting the other people volunteering has been fun," Shjon says. "Oliver and I just met today. Volunteering gives me something to do, and it keeps me off my phone."
PX Associate Elizabeth recalls watching two teen volunteers meet for the first time at the start of their shift. The next time she looked over, they were deep in conversation about DC comics.
"Watching our teens make friends is my ACTUAL favorite part of the summer challenge!" Elizabeth says.
Teens choose to volunteer for many different reasons.
"Technically, my mom signed me up to volunteer," Oliver admits. "But it's been very fun. There's free food, and it's pretty chill. I learned about what happens to books when they go through the return slot. I always kind of looked in the slot when I put books in to watch them go down the conveyor belt, but it was cool to get to go in the back room and see what was in there."
One of the main goals of volunteering is giving teens space to practice essential work and life skills for their future in a safe and supportive environment outside of school.
"Problem-solving is a major skill that teens learn over the summer," Teen Librarian Becca explains. "Often patrons will ask them questions we didn't think of beforehand. It's a good experience to learn how to go with the flow and answer questions."
"I'm learning how to manage my time this summer," volunteer Delilah says. "I'm also volunteering as a CIT [counselor in training], so I have to figure out how to find time for both volunteer positions."
"I've learned that patience is really important," volunteer Truc says. "It takes a long time to sign up for the Summer Challenge, and the journey of reading and all these activities takes time, but it's worth it."
"Volunteering here helps me feel more connected to my community," Truc adds. "I enjoy reading a lot, and I like helping people without expecting money or rewards in return. I like how I can help people access the website and the Summer Challenge, promote reading and help people improve their literacy."
Building community is another primary goal of volunteering.
"I think it adds to the intergenerational friendliness at the Library," PX Associate Kris explains. "Kids love talking to the teens. It adds a sense of fun to the summer."
"Teen volunteers bring a vibrant energy," PX Associate Erin adds. "I have been incredibly impressed with their enthusiasm and professionalism. It's been fun seeing them interact with patrons."
Another perk of volunteering: teens are encouraged to read a book when things are slow! Bookworms can live their best life diving into a book while setting a good example for younger kids visiting the Library. Curious to see what they're reading? Check out this list: Summer Challenge Teen Volunteers Recommend...
Next time you visit JCPL, take a moment to say hi to the teen volunteers at your location. And don't forget to ask them what they are reading!