Volunteering at the Bodleian

Volunteering at the Bodleian Libraries

Volunteers have made a significant contribution to the work of the Libraries for many years and they continue to play a vital role in its success.

Volunteering may be for a limited time to complete a particular project or on an on-going basis. There are a number of ways to volunteer across the Bodleian Libraries and we welcome the skills and time that volunteers bring to the service.

We seek to involve volunteers who have an interest in our collections, culture and values.

Tour guide and visitors at the Bodleian Libraries

Become a Bodleian Library Guide

Volunteer guides have been leading guided tours of the Bodleian Library for over 25 years and provide an important service. They lead tours of 60 and 90 minutes through the historic parts of the Library.

Guides commit to working four hours per month. Training is provided and includes a period of shadowing experienced guides.

Contact the Tours team for more information: tours@bodleian.ox.ac.uk.

Volunteering at the Libraries

Volunteers are welcomed across the Bodleian – in the Libraries and behind the scenes. Past volunteers have supported archiving and cataloguing in Special Collections, and have provided support for events, research, assessment and communications activities.

There are currently no volunteer opportunities available.

Public Engagement volunteers at the Weston Library

Become a Public Engagement volunteer

Volunteers support many aspects of the Bodleian’s Public Engagement work at the Weston Library interacting with visitors. Opportunities include supporting family and adult activities, leading audio-described exhibition tours, giving printing demonstrations, and volunteering in our Space for Reading pop-up library.

All applications are managed through the GLAM Volunteer Service online. Contact Public Engagement on publicengagement@bodleian.ox.ac.uk for more information.