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

Barrie Public Library is committed to providing a safe environment for employees, volunteers and patrons. A policy is currently in place to ensure that all employees and volunteers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Prior to volunteering, all volunteers shall disclose their vaccination status. 

Before you begin, please read the details outlined below:

Step 1 - Review the current opportunities (listed below) 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 your profile, interests, skills and experiences are evaluated, our Coordinator of Volunteer Resources will determine if you are a suitable candidate. If so, you may be provided a letter for you to complete a police check if one is required for the position you’re applying for.

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

Summer Volunteer Squad

Volunteer with Barrie Public Library and make the most of your summer by giving back to your community! Various positions will be available at all 3 library locations as well as the opportunity to support the library in the community at outreach events.

To apply click here: Summer Volunteer Squad - Volunteer Application 

Barrie Dragon Boat Festival Volunteer - Saturday August 19, 2023

Are you someone who would like 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! 

Click here for additional details!!

Café Customer Service Clerk

The BPL Café, located at our Downtown Branch, is a place for patrons and staff to purchase beverages and snacks, including coffee and tea, water and pop, granola bars, muffins and more. This position is ideal for anyone who enjoys providing friendly customer service and has 2-3 hours available each week. Volunteers must be 16 years of age or older and be comfortable with basic math.

We are currently recruiting volunteers to assist with various Sunday shifts as well as weekday shifts from 2:30pm - 5:30pm. 

To apply click here: Café Customer Service - Volunteer Application

BPL LIT (Leaders and Innovative Teens)

This program will allow Teens to develop leadership skills by representing the Barrie Public Library at their schools, in library programs, and at community events. Volunteer hours will be provided to each BPL LIT member for every meeting or activity attended. Meetings occur on the 3rd Monday of the month from 6pm-8pm and members can join virtually or in person.

To apply click here: BPL LIT - Volunteer Application

Teen Reviewers (September-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

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.  

• English Conversation Circle Facilitators
• Teen Reviewers
• Visiting Library Service Volunteer Drivers

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