Volunteer at SPPL
We couldn't do everything we do without the help of hundreds of volunteers. Find out how you can get involved.
Thank you for your interest in learning more about volunteering with the Saint Paul Public Library.
Volunteers are integral part of the work we do and we have a wide range of opportunities for you to get involved.
Reading mentors, homework tutors, tech assistants, teen mentors, garden helpers, library assistants are a few ways you can support your neighborhood libraries. Explore volunteer opportunities below.
We invite you to be a part of our team as we connect, learn, discover and grow with the communities we serve.
Volunteers must:
- be 14 years of age or older.
- complete an on-line volunteer application
- complete a background check
- attend Volunteer Orientation and Training
Apply to be a Library Volunteer
Please contact us if you have any questions!
Volunteer Services
Email: VolunteerSPPL@ci.stpaul.mn.us
Phone: 651-266-7432
Volunteer Opportunities
Cinco de Mayo Parade: Riverview Library
Join the Saint Paul Public Library as a volunteer for the Cinco de Mayo Parade on Saturday, May 2, 2026!
We're looking for 10 volunteers of all ages to walk alongside the Mobile Library and help represent SPPL in this fun, community celebration.
Event Details:
- Time: 9 - 11 a.m (Parade begins at 10 a.m)
- Arrival: Please arrive by 9 a.m.
- Meeting Location: Riverview Library
- What to Expect: Walk in the parade, engage with the community, and help support the library in a fun environment!
Volunteer t-shirts will be provided for the event.
This is a great opportunity to celebrate, connect, and support the library in the community. We'd love to have you join us!
Interested? Email volunteersppl@ci.stpaul.mn.us to learn more.
Healthy Summer Kick-off - Sun Ray Library
Help us kick off summer with a fun, family-friendly event in partnership with Fairview Health Services!
We're looking for 2-4 volunteers to:
- Greet families and invite them to participate
- Support simple, hands-on activities, lawn games, seed planting and more!
- Help create a welcoming, energetic library presence
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Shifts: 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.
If you enjoy working with families and creating fun community events, join us!
Interested? Email volunteersppl@ci.stpaul.mn.us to sign up today.
Help Students Finish the School Year Strong-Volunteer in May!
As the school year winds down, many of our dedicated college volunteer tutors are wrapping up their semesters and heading into finals or summer transitions. We're so grateful for the time and energy they've shared with our students!
At the same time, May is a critical moment for the students we serve. They're preparing for tests, completing end-of-year projects, and building the confidence they need to finish strong.
That's where you come in.
We're looking for volunteers to step in during this important month to support students in reading, writing, and math at one of our five Homework Centers. Even a once-a-week commitment in May can make a meaningful difference-helping a student stay on track, feel supported, and succeed.
Whether you're experienced or new to tutoring, your time and encouragement matter.
Join us this May and be part of helping students reach their goals-big and small. Complete a Volunteer Tutor Sign-Up form to help out.
Flint Hills Family Festival: George Latimer Central Library
Join us for a fun, family-filled day during the Ordway's Flint Hills Family Festival!
While the festival takes place next door, we welcome visiting families by hosting hands-on activities outside George Latimer Central Library on 4th Street-and we need your help to make it engaging and fun.
We're looking for 2-4 volunteers to:
- Greet families and invite them to participate
- Support simple, hands-on activities
- Help create a welcoming, energetic library presence
Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Shifts: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. or 1 - 4 p.m.
Be part of a lively day connecting with families and celebrating community-sign up for a shift and join the fun!
Interested? Email volunteersppl@ci.stpaul.mn.us to sign up today.
Garden Maintenance - George Latimer Central Library, Sun Ray Library and Riverview Library
We are looking for volunteers to help maintain our gardens through weekly weeding. This activity can be scheduled at your convenience and is flexible. If you are interested and have time to share, email us at volunteersppl@ci.stpaul.mn.us to receive more information.
Not sure which volunteer opportunity is right for you?
Tell us a little about yourself in an email to volunteerSPPL@ci.stpaul.mn.us and we will contact you to learn about your volunteering interests and skills.
For Volunteer Coordinators
To learn more about this program, check out Saint Paul Public Library's most recent Impact Reports.