The Pawling Library runs with the work of our dedicated staff and help from the people in our great community.
There are opportunities for anyone who wants to help out at the library. Below are some examples of ways you can help out, but you’re not limited to what we have below. If you have skills or interests you’d like to use to help out the library, let us know by calling us or emailing our Volunteer Coordinator, Tom Clemmons.
The Pawling Library is now a Volunteer Certifying Organization
A Certifying Organization is an organization that has been granted the authority through the application process to award the Presidential Volunteer Service Award to volunteers. Nonprofit, Community-based, Faith-based, Business, School, National Service programs, Membership or Trade associations, Federal, State, or local government agencies, U.S. Military, and state entities aboard are eligible to apply to become a Certifying Organization.
In 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award to recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to take action, too.
The PVSA has continued under each administration, honoring the volunteers who are using their time and talents to solve some of the toughest challenges facing our nation.
Led by the AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light, this program allows Certifying Organizations to recognize their most exceptional volunteers.
Eligibility for awards is based on the age of the volunteer and the number of hours served during a given year. There are three categories: Bronze, Silver, and Gold and also a Lifetime Achievement Award. Volunteer hours at the Library will be recorded and, if a volunteer serves hours at a different organization, these hours can be included for the yearly total as long as dates and time are strictly recorded. A volunteer that meets the required hours will receive a certificate and a letter from the President of the United States. Other award packages may be considered.
Youth Volunteer Opportunities (Ages 11 years and up)
VolunTeens (Formerly Project Do Something)
This is a year-round volunteer opportunity for ages 11 & up. The group will meet twice a month to plan or work on service projects to benefit the Library and the Pawling community.
Meeting dates: The first and third Wednesday of each month at 5 pm to 6:30 pm.There may be additional dates depending on the project.
For questions or to apply, please contact Maureen Meltzer-McGrath, YA Program Coordinator.
Program Partners
This is a summer volunteer opportunity. Volunteers will help the staff with preparations for upcoming programs. Responsibilities will include but not limited to readying craft supplies, setting up activities, clean up and/or assembling take-home kits. Times and hours will vary.
Garden Volunteers
This is a seasonal volunteer program that runs from the spring through the summer and early fall. Volunteers help to plant, take care of and harvest our vegetable and herb garden.
Opportunities for Adult Volunteers at the Library
Tom Clemmons is our Volunteer Coordinator, and he can tell you about opportunities to volunteer at the library. We often need help shelving books and making sure our collection is in good order. Contact Tom if you want to find out how you can help.
We also need volunteers that can help us with big events like the book sale and summer carnival. If you are interested in being contacted about these volunteer opportunities, please fill out our event volunteer form.