Welcome to our volunteer web page!
We’re happy that you’re considering volunteering to serve our community.
The Barrington Area Library provides a variety of service opportunities, available to teens and adults, with differing skill levels. We offer one-time volunteer programs, or ongoing volunteer opportunities, such as:
- supporting special events such as BALibrary Fandom Fest, Creator Fair, and Local Flavors Food Exposition;
- assisting with our summer reading program;
- digitizing our local history collection;
- sorting and packaging of seeds for the Seed Library;
- and more, depending on the Library’s needs!
Anyone interested in volunteering must complete a Volunteer Application. Volunteer applicants 18 years of age and older must consent to a criminal background check to be considered for volunteer participation.
While we accept volunteer applications from students who are 14-17 years of age, not all volunteer opportunities are available to those under 18 years of age. All applicants under 18 years of age must have a parent/guardian signature of approval on the application.
Once the application and background check (for those 18 years and older) are processed, individuals are eligible to volunteer and contact information is added to our volunteer database. While we try to place as many volunteers as possible, depending on the needs of the Library, we cannot guarantee volunteer opportunities.
Current Volunteer Opportunities:
Snow Ball: Friday, Jan 2
Volunteers are needed to help make our annual Snow Ball a delightful experience. Snow Ball is a family-friendly event when the Library transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Families enjoy story time, crafts, treats, face painting, live music, and a festive farewell balloon drop. There’s always great energy, lots of smiles, and something enjoyable for every age - it's the perfect way to kick off the new year!
We’re looking for volunteers to help with crafting, managing lines, serving at the hot cocoa bar, and lending a hand with various tasks throughout the night.
This event takes place at the Barrington Area Library on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 6 PM – 8 PM. Volunteers should arrive by 5:30 PM to get familiar with their assignment. Everyone is encouraged to dress in cozy, comfortable clothing.
Perfect for student volunteers: With school on break, this is a great opportunity to help out and be part of something special!
A limited number of volunteer slots are open for this event. If you’re interested, please complete and submit our volunteer application.
Fandom Fest: Saturday, Feb 28
Fandom Fest is our annual, epic "comic con" style gathering. This exciting event features an artist alley, lots of cosplayers, crafts, photo opportunities, swag, live music, and fun activities suitable for all ages! We are currently seeking enthusiastic individuals to join us as greeters, photographers/videographers, line managers, and craft assistants to contribute to the success of this community event and make it an unforgettable day for our guests! Volunteers may come in costume if they wish!
This event takes place at the Barrington Area Library on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10 AM - 3 PM.
We are looking for help during the following shifts:
- All day, 6 hours from 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
- Morning, 3 hours from 10 AM – 1 PM
- Afternoon, 3 hours from NOON - 3 PM
Want to help us make this event a huge success? Please complete and submit our volunteer application. Volunteers should arrive 15 minutes before their shift for a brief overview of their tasks and assignments for the day.
Open Application:
If there are no current volunteer opportunities, you can still submit a Volunteer Application (PDF) to be considered for a future opportunity. Your completed application will be considered once volunteer opportunities become available.
Please email your completed application to volunteer@balibrary.org, or you can mail your completed application to:
Julie Ary, HR Manager
Barrington Area Library
505 N. Northwest Hwy.
Barrington, IL 60010
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If you have any questions regarding the volunteer program, please contact Julie Ary, HR Manager, at jary@balibrary.org. Volunteers play a significant role in enriching the programming and services offered at the Library.
We appreciate your willingness to donate your time and talent to help us serve the community!