Portsea Library Sorter and Community Engagement Volunteer

As a Library Sorter & Community Engagement Volunteer, you will help keep the library organised and welcoming—ensuring books and materials are properly sorted, shelved, and accessible.

Alongside this, you’ll play a key part in strengthening relationships with local communities, raising awareness of what the library offers, and supporting the co‑production of a new Wellbeing Hub in partnership with Hive Portsmouth’s Community Helpdesk.

This is not a librarian position, but a hands‑on, people‑focused volunteer role ideal for someone who enjoys organising spaces, connecting with residents, and helping shape a vibrant community resource.

Library Sorting & Organisation

• Sort and shelve returned books and materials using the library’s classification system.
• Keep shelves tidy, organised, and easy to browse.
• Restock displays and ensure popular sections remain inviting.
• Assist visitors in locating books or direct them to staff for further support.
• Flag any damaged or misplaced materials to library staff.

Community Engagement & Relationship Building

Connecting with Local Communities

• Build positive relationships with local residents, groups, and community partners.
• Help raise awareness of library services, activities, and the developing Wellbeing Hub.
• Have friendly conversations with visitors to gather insight into what they value or need.

Gathering Community Insight

• Actively listen to residents to understand what activities, services, and resources would benefit them.
• Share insight with library staff and the Hive Portsmouth team to inform planning and future initiatives.

Supporting Inclusive Community Activities

• Promote and help develop inclusive events such as:
  • reading groups
  • craft or cultural sessions
  • family activities
  • digital skills support
  • wellbeing programmes
• Help ensure activities attract a wide range of users, including those who may not currently engage with library services.

Encouraging Co‑Production

• Encourage local people to share their skills, talents, and ideas.
• Support residents to use the library as a space for grassroots community activity.
• Help co‑create a welcoming environment where community-led ideas can grow.

Promoting the Library as a Community Hub

• Champion the library as a flexible, safe, and vibrant place for:
  • lifelong learning
  • social connection
  • creativity
  • community resilience
• Help visitors feel valued and included, reinforcing the library as a space for everyone.

Skills

• Enjoys organising and maintaining order
• Friendly, approachable, and confident in speaking with different community members
• Good listener with an interest in people’s experiences
• Attention to detail
• Ability to follow library sorting systems (alphabetical/numerical)
• Comfortable working independently and alongside staff
• Physically able to manage light shelving tasks