Celebrating Our Volunteers

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” — Aesop

April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, and this year, we’re shining a bright spotlight on the incredible individuals who give their time, talent, and energy to the Central Arkansas Library System. Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 20–26), is a chance for us to say a heartfelt thank you to the people who help bring our mission to life every single day.

At CALS, volunteers are more than helpers—they are an essential part of our library family. From shelving books and assisting with events to supporting outreach programs and creating welcoming spaces across our branches, their work is felt throughout every corner of our system.

 

In 2024, 804 volunteers donated more than 10,200 hours—contributing an estimated $341,790.57 in value to the community. That’s time spent reading to children, packing meals, guiding guests, and showing up wherever needed most. In total, we now have 1,551 volunteers on file, a 255-person increase from 2023, and the momentum is growing.

We’ve seen an exciting increase for Be Mighty Little Rock, our branches, and outreach events. Corporate teams have also joined in to lend their support, volunteering together with Be Mighty and at Used Book Sales as part of employer-supported community service days.

Our volunteers made their mark on many events and programs, including:

• Noon Year’s Eve
• Day of the Dead / Día de Muertos
• Health & Wellness Fair
• Eclipse Explorers
• Color Crawl
• Neighborhood Block Parties
• Branch Anniversary Events and more.

These events would not have been possible without the dedicated individuals who show up with a smile and a willingness to serve.

As author Elizabeth Andrew once said, “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” That spirit is exactly what we see in our volunteers.

Who Can Volunteer at CALS?

Anyone 14 years or older can volunteer at one of our branch locations. Volunteers age 16 and up can also help at other locations and with systemwide projects. Whether you’re an individual looking for a meaningful way to give back or a company seeking team-building opportunities that make a difference, we’d love to have you join us.

Because of our volunteers, we are able to expand our reach, enrich our programs, and serve our community in deeper and more impactful ways.

You don’t have to help us—but because you do, we’re able to do what we do.

Thank you, volunteers! We appreciate you more than words can say.

Sign up to volunteer!

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