Interested in helping others? Be a volunteer

A calming lull falls upon our area once the autumn leaves introduce themselves fully to the pavement. Some may consider this time a perfect opportunity to exercise meditation in the wake of a frenetic summer - others just find it a boring stretch of weeks until snow hits the slopes and the next adventure can begin.

Managing calm and boredom can enrich our lives; even active souls need time to rest and reflect. I find these slower moments a perfect opportunity to collect my thoughts and realign my nearest goals in life. Being a very mentally active person easily prone to distraction, sometimes I need an activity to keep my hands busy in order to keep my mind focused and engaged. Having a simple objective in front of me helps keep my attention undistracted.

Meanwhile, other people are simply looking for an activity to pass the time that doesn’t involve scrolling through social media.

If you’re looking for something like this, as well as a great way to benefit your local community (and your resume), consider volunteering for the library. Both branches of the East Bonner County Library District are always looking for volunteers to assist the staff in maintaining the collections. Volunteering can be as simple as showing up to put away a cart of books every now and again so the shelves stay straight and orderly, to assisting library staff with programs, or even helping tutor students in one-on-one sessions.

Volunteering also benefits volunteers! Potential employers look favorably upon those with a history of volunteering on their resume, which could give you the edge you need to land that new job you’ve been wanting. Additionally, the library hosts volunteer appreciation parties with free food to show our love and appreciation for our volunteers.

The library wouldn’t be what it is without our volunteers. We are very fortunate to have the assistance and kindness of those willing to help the library achieve its mission, and we hope you will consider volunteering as well.

If you’re interested, check out our website at ebonnerlibrary.org. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on “Volunteer” to fill out an application today.

Brenden Bobby can be reached at the East Bonner County Library, 1407 Cedar Street, Sandpoint, by phone at 208-263-6930, or email at brenden@ebonnerlibrary.org .