Community Blogs Series: Volunteers
Our shop could not do all it does without the help of our wonderful volunteers. We currently have over 20 volunteers that regularly help us in different ways from running our events, writing material for our social media, and growing our community garden space. We try to match the skills and interests of our volunteers with the roles in the shop. People enjoy volunteering with us for various reasons, some of which you can find below!
“Volunteering at October Books has been such a wonderful distraction from my degree over the last six months. Though I haven’t been there for long, I’ve really enjoyed contributing to the blog as it’s introduced me to new book titles I would never normally pick up - The Trees by Percival Everett has become one of my favourite reads since blogging about it! Helping with book returns has also been interesting, giving me some understanding of the demand for different genres. The knowledge and skills I’ve gained at October Books will be great additions to my CV when I begin applying for publishing jobs after graduation. Besides the serious skills, I’ve loved working with the other volunteers and staff, who have been so welcoming. From those giving me book recommendations and advice on the publishing industry, to those who simply made me a good cuppa and had a chat, it’s been so nice to meet others passionate about books and the local community. I didn’t grow up in Southampton so it has given me some insight into the city - I’m excited to be back in September and get involved again!” - Ellen
“I started volunteering at October Books when I first moved to Southampton. I think there is always something nice and homely about a bookshop, especially when you're new to the area. October Books instantly gave off the energy of being a warm and welcoming space, so I decided it would be a lovely place to volunteer for. I thought it would be a great way to learn about the local communities, meet new people, and have a go at something new. Since volunteering there, I have been to events that I otherwise would not have had the chance to. I've learnt more about what goes on behind the scenes of running a community space. I am very glad I decided to walk through those doors on that grey and rainy December morning! " Alex
Our Community Share Offer is now live and will run until the 31st October!
We very much look forward to all those who want to get involved becoming part of the October Books family and helping us inspire social change long into the future!
For further information on Community share and our share offer please either visit our Dedicated Share offer page on our website where you can find all the documents and information needed here
https://www.octoberbooks.org/october-books-share-offer-2022
or check our our community blog series starting with the first in the series here
