Volunteering for teens

If you're here, it's because you're interested in giving back to your community. Maybe you want to be a volunteer because you're looking for a fun thing to do in your free time. Maybe you have to volunteer for school. Whatever the reason, we can help you figure out what to do. All volunteering opportunities are drop in for teens in grades 7-12.

Write a Book Review

Write a book review for that great book you just finished reading (fiction or nonfiction, graphic novel or manga, print or audiobook--all okay!) and email it here. Quotes from reviews will be added to our book shelves to recommend books. Each book review will give you one hour of service credit. The book reviews need to be at least 5 sentences long. If you have questions, please email Teen Librarian Ariana.

Make us a Dog Toy

Earn service hours by making fleece dog toys that will be donated to local animal rescues. Kits will be available for pickup at the 3rd floor information desk. Each kit contains instructions and enough fleece to make two dog toys. Return the bag with your form and finished dog toys to receive one hour of service. One kit per teen per month.

Make Cards for Hospitalized Kids

Make uplifting handmade cards for hospitalized kids across the country and senior citizens here in Des Plaines. We supply the materials and suggested messages--you supply your creativity and energy. Find upcoming dates HERE.

Join the Teen Advisory Board

Teen Advisory Board (aka TAB) is where teens come to tell us librarians what the library should be doing for teens like you. TAB is a great way to earn service hours AND
make a difference in your community. Find upcoming dates HERE.

Make Bookmarks for Incarcerated Youth

Earn service hours by making bookmarks for incarcerated youth! Materials will be provided. Find upcoming dates HERE.

Service Hour Drop In

Need some service hours? Join us in The Commons where we will have different service options once a month.. Find upcoming dates HERE.