Volunteers
About
Volunteer applications are being accepted at the Chester County Library & Henrietta Hankin Branch on an as-needed basis.
You may view examples of volunteer positions on our website. Due to the high number of applications received, we are unable to respond to each application individually. All applications are kept on file for six months and candidates are contacted as opportunities arise and in the order applications are received.

To Become an Adult Library Volunteer
Adults interested in volunteering may apply using one of the following methods:
- Complete the Online Adult Application Form
- Request an Adult Volunteer Application form at a service desk at either library.
- Return the completed form to the Customer Service Desk at either location, or
- Mail it to the address at the top of the form.
Please note: The library is not currently accepting applications for court-ordered community service. Court-ordered volunteers are accepted only to assist with The Friends of the Chester County Library Book Sales, scheduled for April 10–12, 2026 and October 9–11, 2026. Individuals interested in volunteering for these events should contact the Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected] no more than three weeks prior to the scheduled book sale for additional information.
Background Clearances
All volunteer applicants 18 years of age and older must submit the following clearances before placement:
- Pennsylvania Child Abuse Clearance
- Pennsylvania Criminal History Clearance
- FBI fingerprinting clearance (required if the applicant has not resided continuously in Pennsylvania for the past 10 years)
See here to find information about obtaining clearances for volunteers.
Please note: The FBI fingerprinting clearance includes a fee, which is not reimbursed by the library.
Teen Summer Volunteer Program
Applications for the 2026 Teen Summer Volunteer Program are now available and will close when all positions are filled.
Complete the online Teen Application Form to apply for the program.
Please note:
- Applications submitted before the March opening date will not be accepted
- Due to the high number of applications received, we are unable to respond to each application individually
- Applicants will be contacted only if selected for an interview
General Information about Teen Volunteers
Requirements for the Teen Summer Volunteer Program:
- Must be at least 14 years old at the time of application for Youth Services and entering 9th grade and 16 years old for other departments
- Must be available to maintain a regular assigned shift during the summer and be in attendance at least 8 of 10 weeks of the program
- The Program will run Monday June 15, 2026 through Friday August 21, 2026
- Volunteers are assigned one three-hour shift per week
- Applications must include the student’s personal email address (School email addresses are not accepted, as messages are often blocked by school filters)
- Students must initiate their own email and telephone communication with the library
Interview Process:
- If selected for an interview, you will be asked to come into the Chester County Library in Exton to complete a paper shelving test based on how books are shelved within the library
- If you pass the shelving test, you will be asked to interview
- After your interview, you will be notified if you are selected for the program. You may be asked to complete another in person test
Teen Drop-In Volunteer Program
Please check back in August for information about our newly launched Teen Drop-In Volunteer Program.
This program is open to students 16 years and older who need no more than 10 hours of volunteer service.
To Learn More About Library Volunteer Opportunities:
- Read the Volunteer Brochure
- E-mail the Coordinator of Volunteers with questions or to request more information
