Gladstone’s Library has a thriving volunteer programme. Volunteers work in the Reading Rooms, help give tours, and tend to the gardens. Volunteers help us extend our team and broaden our skills.
We are currently looking for a small team of Site Information Volunteers for our Gladfest literary festival which this year takes place at the Library 7th - 9th September.
Why does Gladfest need volunteers?
Gladstone’s Library looks a little different while Gladfest is on. Some rooms and corridors are out of bounds, and the entire site is closed to cars for the duration of the festival. We staff the gate for most of the festival, keeping cars off the site and giving information as to where the nearest car parks are.
With all the changes we need guides: people who can spot someone who looks a little lost and get them to where they need to go; people who know where to find a spare programme; people who can show people where the toilets are; people who can explain where Tinkersdale car park is; people who can be jolly in a high-vis vest!
Do I need experience?
Not at all! You’ll get full training and a badge/lanyard that identifies you as one of the team. Your lanyard will also get you tea and / or coffee from Food for Thought – just show it to the staff. Please note that working on the gate may involve being out in wet and chilly weather. We really appreciate everyone who wants to help, but if wet and cold conditions are a problem for you, please enjoy the festival as a guest!
Will it take all day?
No! We have divided the festival time into four-hour blocks, with one two-hour spot on the Sunday:
- Friday, 7th September: 5pm - 9pm
- Saturday, 8th September: 9am - 1pm; 1pm – 5pm; 5pm – 9pm
- Sunday, 9th September: 8am - 12pm; 12pm – 4pm; 4pm – 6pm
You can volunteer for more than one shift if you like.
How will I know what to do?
There will be two training sessions:
- Tuesday, 21st August at 6pm (please note this is a rescheduled date)
- Monday, 3rd September at 6pm
There will also be a chance to see the site on Friday, 7th September (time TBC)
If you are interested in becoming a Gladfest Site Information Volunteer or if you would like further information, please contact Louisa Yates on [email protected] or 01244 532350. Please indicate which shifts you would be able to commit to.