Interested in Volunteering at the Library?
Thank you for your interest in joining the Library's vibrant community of volunteers. Tulsa City-County Library volunteers serve in many positions throughout Tulsa County. Not only do volunteers have the opportunity to give back to their community, but they also gain valuable experience and a better understanding of our libraries and communities.
Take your first step to volunteering with Tulsa City-County Library by filling out the volunteer application now:
Library Aide
Multiple Locations
Adult Literacy Tutor
Multiple Locations
After-School Homework Club Coach
Multiple Locations
Maker Space Volunteer
Central Library
PAWS for Reading Volunteer (ATD Registered)
Multiple Locations
Teen Team Volunteer
Multiple Locations
Special Events Volunteer
Multiple Locations
Special Mailing Volunteer
Multiple Locations
Seed Library Volunteer
Multiple Locations
Volunteer Requirements
- The Library accepts volunteers ages 16 or older who are able to make a 3 month or 40 hour commitment.
- Volunteer applicants ages 18 and over must successfully pass a background check provided by the library.
- Court ordered volunteer work cannot be completed at the library.
What is the volunteer application process?
- Applicants must first fill out an application by clicking here.
- Applicants with completed applications will be invited to complete a phone interview with the Volunteer Services Office.
- If applicable, an applicant will be asked to complete a criminal background check provided by the Library.
- Once the application, screening and background check have been completed, the applicant will meet with the branch or department supervisor in person to review duties, expectations and scheduling.
Some volunteer positions may require additional steps in the application process, such as in-person interviews, portfolio review, additional training, or orientation.
Can I complete service hours for school at the Library?
Yes. Many of our volunteers are high school and college students that are volunteering to meet school and educational award/scholarship requirements. With few exceptions, we ask that volunteers commit to at least 3 months or 40 hours of volunteer service with the Library.
We encourage students to apply to volunteer at the beginning of the semester. We may not able to accommodate requests for last minute volunteer hours.
How do I earn the President's Volunteer Service Award?
Tulsa City-County Library is proud to be a certifying organization for the President's Volunteer Service Award.
Established in 2003, the President's Volunteer Service Award is a nationally recognized award that honors the importance of our nation's volunteers whose service is multiplied through the inspiration they give others. Along with the ultimate honor of presidential recognition, recipients will receive a personalized certificate, an official pin, medallion or coin and a congratulatory letter from the president of the United States.
Volunteers ages 13 and up are eligible to receive this honor when they serve a minimum number of hours in a calendar year.
Awards are issued as follows:
Teens (13–15)
- 50 – 74 Hours- Bronze Award
- 75 – 99 Hours - Silver Award
- 100 + Hours - Gold Award
Young Adults (16-25)
- 100 – 174 Hours - Bronze Award
- 175 – 249 Hours - Silver Award
- 250 + Hours - Gold Award
Adults (26 and older)
- 100 – 249 Hours - Bronze Award
- 250 – 499 Hours - Silver Award
- 500+ Hours - Gold Award
Families and Groups*
- 200 – 499 Hours - Bronze Award
- 500 – 999 Hours - Silver Award
- 1,000+ Hours - Gold Award
(Families and groups wishing to earn the PVSA should contact the Volunteer Services Office for more information: volunteers@tulsalibrary.org)
President’s Lifetime Achievement Award: Individuals who have completed 4,000 or more hours in their lifetime
The presentation of awards will coincide with Volunteer Appreciation Week in April. Recipients will be notified by postal mail of their award.
Can I complete court ordered service hours at the Library?
No. You may not complete court ordered service hours at Tulsa City-County Library. This includes any hours needed to meet a court issued or legal requirement.
Can I volunteer at a specific library?
You can indicate your library preference when you fill out the online application.
We will do our best to place you in one of your preferred locations, however volunteer vacancies are different for each location and fluctuate throughout the year.
Can I read to kids?
No. Library staff are responsible for conducting programs at the library, which includes story time.
If you wish to volunteer with children grades 3-8, check out our After School Homework Coach position in the descriptions above.
Can my dog join PAWS for Reading?
All PAWS for Reading volunteers and dogs are required to complete the application process. Dogs must be registered with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD). You can read more about this volunteer position in the description above.
PAWS for Reading is only open to dogs at this time.
Can my 10 year old child volunteer at the library?
Tulsa City-County Library volunteers must be 16 years of age to volunteer in most library branches and departments.
Young teens, ages 13-15, may apply for Teen Team in the spring. We recommend this as a first volunteer opportunity for youth interested in the library. You can click here for more information about Teen Team.
Will volunteering get me a job at the Library?
Volunteering at the library does not guarantee employment by Tulsa City-County Library. You are encouraged to include your volunteer experience on applications and resumes.
Do volunteers have a set schedule?
Each branch and department has different schedule requirements for their volunteers. We encourage volunteers to commit to a consistent schedule under the guidance of their program's supervisor.