Opportunities for Adults
The Library offers a range of volunteer opportunities for adults.
MLK Library Docent & Welcome Ambassadors
Do you have a passion for literature, history and architecture? DC Public Library invites you to join a team of Docent and Welcome Ambassadors who will assist members of the public in learning, understanding and enjoying the modernized Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library, its artwork, history, and extensive services and collections.
Special Events Volunteer
The Special Events Volunteer will support Library events such as author talks, concerts, open houses, youth programs and more. This is a great opportunity for out-going Library enthusiasts who have limited time in their schedules.
Volunteer Computer Instructor
Volunteer Computer Instructors will teach one or more of Microsoft Office computer software or computer-based classes to the Library’s adult customers in support of the Adult Learning Department’s Workforce Digital Literacy Training Program.
American Sign Language (ASL) Instructor
The American Sign Language (ASL) Instructor will teach or serve as backup substitute teachers for the DC Public Library ASL classes. ASL classes meet once a week during the daytime and/or evening at the Library Express – Center for Accessibility and any of the other neighborhood libraries. Days and times of classes are negotiated according to volunteer availability, and needs/interests of the particular library and the community.
Digital Archives Interns
Help share DC stories at The People's Archive. Digital archives interns add content to our online repository, DigDC. Applications are closed until summer semester, 2025. Learn more and review deadlines here.
Complete position descriptions are available through the application portal. All applicants ages 18 and up must successfully complete a background check. This process may take 2-3 weeks; the cost is covered by the Library.
COVID-19 Vaccination documentation is required.
Opportunities for Teens (ages 14-17)
Teen Special Events Volunteer – These volunteers support Library events such as author talks, concerts, open houses, youth programs and more. This is a great opportunity for teens who have limited time in their schedule and can commit to serving for one day or as needed. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
QUESTIONS: Contact Stacey Lucas, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, via email at libraryvolunteers@dc.gov or 202-741-5990.
Group Service Projects
Group Service Volunteers will support large-scale projects such as shifting books, cleaning shelves, ushering at Library events (author talks, open houses and youth programs), and assembling materials. This is a great opportunity for organizations that wish to volunteer as a group.
Court-Mandated Community Service
At the present time, we do not accept court-ordered volunteer applicants. We recommend you visit Serve DC, The Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism and Partnerships’ website at serve.dc.gov or 202-727-7925 for assistance.
Before matching you to a project, staff may wish to interview you further about your skills and interests.
Due to a high volume of applications received, only applicants who meet the qualifications will be contacted for an interview. This process may take approximately 2-3 weeks.
Contact Us
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Call the volunteer program at 202-741-5990 or email libraryvolunteers@dc.gov.
Find other ways to support the Library at dclibrary.org/support.