Volunteer for the Oakland Public Library!
This page lists current adult volunteer opportunities with OPL and some of our Friends groups. Teen volunteers (ages 13-17) can find more information on the Teen Volunteer page.
Computer Tutors
Make a difference in our community by volunteering as a library Computer Tutor!
Duties include helping patrons one-on-one with basic computer skills, such as: setting up Zoom and email accounts, assisting with Internet searches, helping with resume writing, completing online forms, using Microsoft Word and Google Suite, printing, etc. Please plan for a regular 2-hour weekly commitment for at least six months.
The following library locations are currently recruiting new Computer Tutors:
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- Main Library
- César E. Chávez Branch (Spanish and/or Mam skills a plus!)
- Dimond Branch
- Elmhurst Branch (Open shifts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays)
- Melrose Branch (Spanish language skills preferred)
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If you are patient, punctual, and reliable, have good communication skills, and enjoy working with others, please complete the OPL volunteer application.
Please include the days and times you are available to volunteer starting in December, along with your preferred location(s).
A training session for all new Computer Tutors will be scheduled for late November or early December. We’ll be accepting applications until shortly before that training or until all spaces are filled.
AARP's Tax-Aide Program
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides tax preparation help for anyone who cannot afford paid tax services, and for many years they have offered this important program at select library locations. The Tax-Aide program is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of roles!
AARP Foundation will provide all the training you’ll need. Learn more and apply now at the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide page.
This is a wonderful opportunity to support one of the library's most popular services!
Help in the Library's Sewing Lab on Monday Mornings!
The Asian Library, opens a new window (388 Ninth Street, Suite 190) has a busy sewing lab that operates on Mondays from 10am - 12 pm. The library is looking for a skilled volunteer who knows how to operate a sewing machine and is comfortable trouble-shooting. Cantonese language skills a plus, but not required.
To learn more, please complete the OPL volunteer application.
Adopt a Spot Volunteers at OPL
The Elmhurst Branch Library (1427 88th Avenue): Make this neighborhood library shine by picking up litter. Supplies are provided, and the timing is flexible. Email sdubois@oaklandlibrary.org to learn more.
The African American Museum and Library at Oakland (659 14th Street): Help with community beautification at special events organized by the Friends-Stewards of AAMLO. Visit their website, opens a new window to learn more.
Lakeview Branch Library (550 El Embarcadero): Lakeview Friends host a group workday on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00 - 11:00 am. Volunteers are welcome to drop in and help with garden maintenance and litter clean-up.
Also at the Lakeview Branch: help keep the library free of litter at a time that works for you. After training, you can come whenever the library is open to access supplies and do a cleanup. Email sdubois@oaklandlibrary.org to learn more.
Support the library by volunteering with the Friends of the Oakland Public Library!
The Friends of the Oakland Public Library, opens a new window are seeking volunteers support bookstore operations at 933 Broadway in Old Oakland.
Duties include lifting and moving heavy items such as boxes of books, organizing shelves, sorting donations, and handling sales during open store hours (now open 11:00 am - 5:00 p.m. Sunday through Friday, 11:00 am - 6:00 p.m. Saturday).
Please complete the Friends' Bookmark Volunteer Form, opens a new window and one of the store managers will be in touch.
If you have any questions about these volunteer opportunities, please contact Sara DuBois, Coordinator of Grants & Volunteers, at sdubois@oaklandlibrary.org.
