Approved 09/13/2022; Reviewed 09/14/2025
The Library encourages enthusiastic individuals who can support, improve, and expand library materials and services, and increase community awareness of the Library.
Friends of the Library
The Friends of the Butler Public Library (the Friends) is the formal association of supporters who plan and execute programs and events to benefit the Library, in conjunction with Library goals and Director needs.
The Friends are tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
The Friends maintain an independent set of bylaws, officers, financial statements,
and bank accounts.
Information about the Friends organization is available in the Library, on the Library website, or in person from Library staff.
Memorandum of Understanding
The Board and Friends have concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that explains how the two groups work together. The MoU is part of the Supporters of the Library Policy.
A disbursement agreement form for fund-raising events is available from Library staff or can be retrieved from the Library website.
Volunteers
Individuals can volunteer their time, talents, and efforts directly to the Library. Volunteers enhance service to the community through work on special projects or programs. They do not replace the professional staff of the Director, librarians, or assistants, but work under their direction.
Process
- Application: All interested parties must complete a Volunteer Application. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian’s signature.
- Background Check: The volunteer (parent or guardian if under 18) must request a background check from the local Police Department. (Request a Background Check Authorization Form from staff or retrieve from the Library’s website). Background checks are necessary to ensure a safe working environment for all staff, fellow volunteers (including minor children) and Library patrons. The Director will rely heavily on the recommendation of the Police Department relative to any issues raised in a background check.
- Review: The Director reviews the Volunteer Agreement, obtains the necessary signatures, and creates a file for the volunteer.
- Records: Once the Police Department completes the background check, they send a letter to the Director with the results. The Director retains this letter in the Volunteer’s file along with a copy of the completed application.
- Agreement: Assuming the background check is positive, and the application shows the volunteer to have skills needed at the Library, the Director and volunteer complete a Volunteer Agreement. The Director adds this to the volunteer’s file.
Exceptions
If a volunteer does not pass the background check or is unable to contribute usefully to the mission of the Library, the Director will write a formal letter declining the volunteer’s services.
Expectations
Volunteers must maintain a professional appearance and attitude when in the Library performing library duties. When in the Library, all volunteers must check in with staff and wear a “volunteer” badge.
Hours
Volunteers can set a regular schedule for their hours at the Library, in agreement with the staff. They can also help on an a- needed basis based on their own schedule. In this case, volunteers should always check with staff before arriving at the Library to ensure that there is work for the volunteer to do. Staff may also request volunteers for specific times or events.
Tasks
Staff will consider age, ability, and aptitude when assigning tasks to volunteers. Volunteers may shelve books, clean shelves, organize storage or office areas, prepare materials or spaces for special events, create displays, or complete other tasks as designated by the staff.
Updated: 10/28/25