Patients' Library and Children's Library Volunteer

Unit Description

The Patients' Library and Janice and Bruce Ellig Children's Library provide an excellent chance for interaction with the staff and patients at UI Hospitals & Clinics. The library is similar to a public library but is available to patients, families, and staff. The library is staffed by volunteers every day of the week. Volunteers do a wide variety of jobs including delivering movies, video games, iPads, and books to patients, working at the front desk, and taking books around to children staying in the hospital from the Free Book Cart. Volunteers will work alongside library and nursing staff, nursing assistants, as well as other college student and community volunteers. Interested volunteers are encouraged to have strong social skills and be able to communicate and interact with a wide variety of patients. An outgoing personality is recommended and dependability is a must.

Training

All prospective Patients' Library and Janice and Bruce Ellig Children's Library volunteers will need to attend large group orientation, where they will receive general UI Hospitals & Clinics information. Volunteers will also need to attend a small group orientation to receive training and information about the unit as well as a tour of the library.

Uniform

The dress code for this unit is either business casual attire or a Volunteer Services polo, khaki pants, and closed-toe shoes. Shirts are available for purchase at Wild Rose Gifts (Main Entrance Lobby) Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Volunteers must follow the professional appearance policy, which includes wearing the volunteer badge at all times.

Hours Available

The Patients' Library is open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The Janice and Bruce Ellig Children's Library is open 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

Areas of Study Best Suited

Any areas in which strong social abilities are helpful. Library science, computer science, or English majors are also encouraged to apply.