There are a range of ways to get involved with your local library, from shelving books to building Lego towers with young visitors. Currently Milton Keynes Libraries are searching for Code Club volunteers, and an IT Buddy based at Central Library.

What is Code Club?

Read more: Milton Keynes Libraries: Volunteer Opportunity of the Week

The first rule of Code Club is… it’s a place for 8-12 year olds to learn coding skills through fun activities!

What does the role involve?

Ideally, volunteers should:

  • be available for 2 hours each week (currently Friday) to help with the code club session at Central Library, but potentially expanding to other community libraries;
  • commit for at least one school term (approximately 12 weeks);
  • be willing to sign up at the official UK code club website as a volunteer;
  • undertake training available on the code club website;
  • be willing to undertake a DBS check (via code club);
  • prepare for the code club activities each week;
  • be comfortable using coding languages like Scratch;
  • preferably (not essential) have experience of teaching or instructing – but training and help will be provided;
  • be responsible for conducting a session and work in a team of 2-3 volunteers.

What is an IT Buddy?

An IT Buddy supports library visitors with basic IT tuition, including accessing the internet.

What does the role involve?

Ideally, volunteers should:

  • have an interest in libraries;
  • be able to offer basic IT tuition and support;
  • use the UK online website to provide the initial training;
  • help with customer IT enquiries. Things like setting up an email address, using social media, searching and applying for jobs online, finding online government and council information and guiding users through online shopping;
  • provide good customer care;
  • preferably have experience of teaching, instructing or guiding – although training and help will be provided

For more information and how to apply: Volunteering with Milton Keynes libraries | Milton Keynes Council (milton-keynes.gov.uk)