Support the community we're all a part of by volunteering at BPL! We welcome applications from those 14 years of age or older.

A full list of application steps can be found below the list of current opportunities.

We are actively looking for volunteers to fill the following library positions:

Summer Volunteer Squad!

Calling all teens!! Volunteer with Barrie Public Library and make the most of your summer by giving back to your community! By joining the Summer Volunteer Squad you'll have the opportunity to help with various kids programs at the Downtown, Holly or Painswick Branch.

To apply click here: Summer Volunteer Squad - Volunteer Application 

Barrie Dragon Boat Festival Volunteer - Saturday August 17th

Do you want to volunteer, but aren't interested in a long-term commitment? Do you like the outdoors and being physically active?

If so, volunteering with the Barrie Dragon Boat Festival might be the perfect opportunity to get involved. We offer many different roles; from support on the docks, to site set-up and ensuring our event is as safe as possible.

With various volunteer positions to choose from and hundreds of hours to fill, there are roles for anyone and everyone. Up to 20 volunteer hours can be completed in just one weekend! 

Application Opening Soon!

Teen Reviewers (October-May)

Teens who go to school or live in Barrie have a virtual way to earn volunteer hours at the library – by writing reviews! This is a great opportunity for teens who love to write. Any book, movie, audiobook, graphic novel, or video game that is available at the library can be reviewed. Reviews must be 250-500 words in length. Approved reviews will be posted on the library’s website. Each completed review earns the reviewer 2 volunteer hours. 

To apply as a Teen Reviewer ONLY click here: Teen Reviewer - Volunteer Application

If you have any questions prior to applying to become a volunteer, please email: volunteers@barrielibrary.ca

Before you begin, please read the details outlined below:

Step 1 - Review the current opportunities (listed above) to see if you are interested in volunteering with the Barrie Public Library. 

Step 2 – To apply for a position, follow the volunteer application link associated with it. Complete the application form in full, and hit "Submit Application"

Step 3 - Carefully review the email that is sent to you once your application is received.

**Teen Reviewer applicants only need to complete Steps 1, 2 and 3 as listed above**

Step 4 - Ask two people who are not family or close friends to complete a Volunteer Applicant Reference Check for you. Paper copies of the reference check form can be picked up at either branch if needed.

 **If your references are not received within 1 month from the date you apply, your application may be deleted from our system.**

Step 5 - When your references are received, our Coordinator of Volunteer Resources will be in touch to schedule an interview. 

Step 6 - Once the interview is complete and if your interests, skills and availability align with one of our available opportunities, our Coordinator of Volunteer Resources will review the next steps. If you are 18 or older a letter and instructions may be provided in order to complete a police check.

Step 7 - Sign the volunteer waiver, upload it to your volunteer profile and complete the required online training. Documents and links to training will be provided at the end of your interview.

Step 8 - Once your police check is complete and returned to you (if one is required), contact our Coordinator of Volunteer Resources to set up your position specific training.

We strive to provide a variety of volunteer positions, and the list is always changing. To see a list of positions we’re currently trying to fill, see the top of this page.  

• Children's Program Assistants
• English Conversation Circle Facilitators
• Visiting Library Service Volunteer Drivers

Additional volunteer opportunities in the Barrie area can be found by visiting our Information Barrie website