Gregory Heights Library: Follow the Reader (age 14-18)

Are you a teen (age 14-18) that likes reading and working with children? Consider volunteering with the Follow the Reader program! The library is looking for teens to help children in elementary school with practicing reading skills on Saturday afternoons. Volunteers who fluently read and speak Spanish, Vietnamese, or another language common in our community are encouraged to apply!

Time Commitment

  • Volunteer training is on Saturday, April 5 from 11:00 - 12:30 pm.
  • Reading sessions are on Saturdays from 3:00-5:00 pm starting on April 12. Sessions go through the end of the school year.

Location: Gregory Heights Library, 7921 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97213

Tasks & Responsibilities

  • Help elementary age (kindergarten-5th grade) children practice reading skills
  • Select good books to use for reading practice
  • Involve children in reading activities
  • Fulfill agreed upon volunteer commitment or give supervisor sufficient notice if unable to complete assignment

Skills & Qualifications

  • Must be entering 8th grade or be 14 or older (up to 18 years old)
  • Ability to read and speak English fluently
  • Flexible and patient, especially with children 
  • Focused, friendly demeanor with the children as they practice
  • Enjoy working with children and talking to others
  • Ability to fluently speak and read Spanish, Vietnamese or another language common in our community is also welcomed.
  • Ability to pass a criminal record check if 18 years or older. Results of the records check will be reviewed on an individualized basis. A conviction is not an automatic bar to volunteering.

Training provided

  • Specific instruction on types of books available for kids
  • Instruction on how to help children practice reading
  • Orientation to library services
  • Review of boundaries and working with vulnerable populations

Benefits

  • Get service hours for school and scholarships
  • Learn practical job skills
  • Be part of a fun library program
  • Be part of a community of volunteers who care about libraries and literacy