The East Hills Library is looking for volunteers to help out with their summer reading program and more.

Applicants must be 12-18 years of age and be able to work at least one shift a week for a minimum of five weeks between June 1 and August 1.

East Hills Library Youth Services Manager Jess Gould said the youth volunteer program was started a few years ago and not only helps out the library, but also benefits the students volunteering.

“I think we live in a community where you can really make changes in your community if you put forth the effort and time to become involved,” Gould said. “Not only does this help kids prepare for future employment by having sign-in procedures, customer services skills, working with other teenagers that they might not know, having that opportunity to be in a professional environment outside of school will really benefit them in the long run. In addition to that, I think, just fostering the appreciation for giving time and energy to our community is a skill that all teenagers and adults could benefit from.”

Applications are posted on the St. Joseph Public Library website and paper copies are available at the library. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 12. Gould said there is an orientation volunteers need to attend before the program starts.

For more information, contact Jess at the East Hills Library at (816) 236-2136.