How to Apply (Under 18)
Please be aware: the application process can take up to 30 days for approval and placement, with additional delays during the summer and fall recruitment.
Minors (14 - 17 years old) are welcome to apply year-round for volunteer positions with Queens Public Library. New York State law mandates that youth under 14 are not allowed to volunteer unless under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian.
Follow these easy steps to begin:
Individuals 18 and older should read the requirements for adult volunteers...here
Step 1: Obtain Required Paperwork
Minors are required to obtain specific forms of paperwork before you can begin a volunteer project. You are encouraged to possess the documents before creating your volunteer account to ensure that registration is quick and easy. Upload completed documents to your volunteer account. Incomplete applications (missing any required documents) will not be processed and will be on hold until documents are submitted.
Note: Some projects do not require NYS Working Papers. Check project descriptions for any exceptions.
Required forms include (Adobe Flash must be enabled in your browser to view all documents):
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Parental Consent Form (Click to download): Minors must have signed parent/guardian consent forms to volunteer.
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Valid NYS Working Papers (Click to download the application): Working Papers are required by New York State law for both volunteer and paid employment positions. Minors must submit the working papers application and required documents to their high school's designated office or guidance counselor. Afterward, it takes 1-3 weeks to receive the final documents from your school. Read more about obtaining your working papers.
Not eligible for working papers? Queens Public Library may opt to waive the working paper requirement for minors with international, immigrant, or out-of-state status. Instead, applicants may be asked for an alternative form of student verification. However, all minors are still required to obtain parental/guardian consent to volunteer with Queens Public Library.
Step 2: Search and Apply
Under "Find an Opportunity", you may search for available volunteer projects. Click on a service title to view a description containing an overview of the tasks and responsibilities, skills required, and dates/times needed. Some projects possess a specific age or skill requirement. Please refer to the listing for all criteria.
Once you identify a suitable project, use the "Express Interest/Sign Up" button at the bottom of the description to fill out a volunteer application. Make sure to upload any required documents.
Once received, you will be contacted by Volunteer Services with the next steps to complete the registration process.
Step 3: Interview
QPL will review your application and may contact you to schedule an interview with the project supervisor. The interview provides a chance to learn more about the position and discuss the requirements, schedules, and specific duties and tasks for the opportunity.
Applicants recommended for placement will receive an Official Offer Letter. Applicants must reply and either accept or decline a position.
Step 4: Start Volunteering
Once finalized, applicants will receive a welcome kit, including the Official Welcome Letter and link to virtual new volunteer orientation videos. The orientation covers important policies and topics related to having a successful service experience. Once they receive the welcome kit, volunteers can contact the project supervisor to schedule their start date.
Allowable Hours for Minors
Minors may not be employed during the hours they are required to attend school.
Minors 14 and 15 years of age may not be employed in any occupation (except farmwork and delivering, or selling and delivering newspapers):
When school is in session:
- more than 3 hours on any school day, more than 8 hours on a nonschool day, more than 6 days in any week, for a maximum of 18 hours per week, or a maximum of 23 hours per week if enrolled in a supervised work study program approved by the Commissioner.
- after 7 p.m. or before 7 a.m.
When school is not in session:
- more than 8 hours on any day, 6 days in any week, for a maximum of 40 hours per week.
- after 9 p.m. or before 7 a.m.
This certificate is not valid for work associated with newspaper carrier, agriculture or modeling.
Minors 16 and 17 years of age may not be employed:
When school is in session:
- more than 4 hours on days preceding school days; more than 8 hours on days not preceding school days (Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays), 6 days in any week, for a maximum of 28 hours per week.
- between 10 p.m. and 12 midnight on days followed by a school day without written consent of parent of guardian and a certificate of satisfactory academic standing from the minor’s school (to be validated at the end of each marking period).
- between 10 p.m. and 12 midnight on days not followed by a school day without written consent of parent orguardian.
When school is not in session:
- more than 8 hours on any day, 6 days in any week, for a maximum of 48 hours per week.
Questions
If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact the Office of Volunteer Services at volunteer@queenslibrary.org.
