We like to think of ourselves as superheroes, right? We can do it all on our own faster, better, more efficiently than anyone else. But here’s the truth: not for long. Yes, librarians are capable of amazing things (y’all prove that time and time again), but help allows us to do more, better. 

A parent volunteer stealing some time with her daughter after class.

I also need to pause and acknowledge my privilege here: I work at a school where parents love being on campus, and many have the flexibility to do so. Not every school has that option, and some districts don’t allow parents in student spaces at all. But if you can start a parent volunteer program, the benefits extend far beyond having books shelved (though that’s a big one!). 

Why Parent Volunteers Matter 

Supporting daily operations
Shelving, circulation, organization, repairs, labeling, displays, etc.: parent help with these routine tasks frees librarians to focus on instruction, programming, and working directly with learners. 

Parent volunteers allow you to do more complicated class set ups…like getting a group of Kindergarteners on iPads quickly.

Expanding programs and events
From author visits and book fairs to reading challenges and makerspace activities, extra hands make it possible to host more robust and engaging experiences for students. 

Building a reading culture
When students see their parents active in the library, it reinforces the message that reading and libraries matter. 

Strengthening the home–school connection
Volunteers gain a unique window into their children’s school life. In turn, they become natural advocates for the library, supporting resources, programs, and funding. 

I can’t stress this last point enough. At a time when libraries are under scrutiny, it may seem safer to close the doors to anyone who isn’t a student. But that’s dangerous. Secrecy fuels misconceptions. When parents see firsthand the day-to-day work of the library, they get it. They understand the critical role libraries play, and they become your fiercest defenders. Parent volunteers are often the first to correct misinformation or squash rumors before they spread, all because they’ve seen the value of your work up close. That’s the best kind of advocacy you can have. 

How to Start a Parent Volunteer Program 

  • Spread the word. Send messages home or post sign-ups to gather interest. 
  • Build a contact list. Keep track of responses, and if possible, enlist a parent to help coordinate scheduling. 
  • Gather availability. Even if someone can’t commit regularly, ask if they’re willing to sub. 
  • Create a schedule. The more consistently volunteers come in, the more skilled and useful they’ll be. (One year, we tried monthly shifts. By May, parents were still asking where books went!) 
  • Train them. We use short videos on shelving and circulation, then give volunteers a library tour on their first day. That’s usually all it takes. 
  • Show gratitude. At the end of the year, we dedicate a book to the library in each volunteer’s name. Not only does it add to the collection, but it creates a lasting tribute that learners love checking out. 

Questions to Consider Before You Begin 

Did that tornado of a class rip through? Volunteers are happy to help you restore order.

A volunteer program can be an incredible asset, but it’s worth pausing to reflect before jumping in. Thinking through a few key questions will help ensure your program runs smoothly and fits the needs of your school community:

  1. What should remain librarian-led, and what can be delegated? For example, shelving, book repair, or creating bulletin boards might be perfect volunteer tasks, while student records or collection decisions should stay in professional hands. 
  1. When do I need the most support? Consider your peak times…before or after school, busy checkout periods, or special events like book fairs. 
  1. What rules and policies apply? Check your school or district’s requirements for background checks, confidentiality, and volunteer conduct. 
  1. How will I handle challenges? Think ahead about how you’ll respond if a volunteer oversteps boundaries or doesn’t follow directions. 

Yes, the beginning may feel slow. And yes, books will get mis-shelved. But fixing a few out-of-place titles is infinitely better than shelving everything yourself just to have it “perfect.” Parent volunteers lighten the load, enrich your program, and strengthen your school community. In short, they’re superheroes, too.