1. Who can volunteer at NLB?

We welcome everyone who is an NLB member with a MyLibraryID or with a valid NRIC/FIN number to register as a volunteer with NLB.

2. How do I apply to be a volunteer?

Simply complete the volunteer application form at Be a Volunteer> Register as a Volunteer. Be sure to provide a valid email address as all updates and communications will be sent via email.

3. How much time do I need to commit as a volunteer?

There is no minimum commitment hours required of a volunteer. We have various opportunities with different commitment levels (e.g. from ad hoc events to those that span across a few months) so you can identify the ones that best cater to your availabilities and interests!

4. Is there a minimum age limit before I can volunteer?

There is no minimum age limit as long as you possess the skillset required for the role applied for. However, volunteers below the age of 13 years old should register and volunteer with their older family members or caregivers.

5. When can I start volunteering?

You can start volunteering as soon as you receive your account details! Slots for volunteering opportunities are available on a first-come first-served basis.

6. Where can I find available volunteer opportunities?

Log in to your volunteer account and click on the Home button at the top of the page to discover a range of activities that you can contribute to!

7. When will I know if my volunteering application is successful?

You will be notified via a confirmation email sent to the email address that you have provided in your application form.

8. Why do I need to have a volunteer account with NLB?

You will need to have a volunteer account with NLB to sign up for volunteering opportunities at NLB. Your volunteering account will also enable you to track and print your service records and view your rewards card (if eligible).

9. Can I volunteer without signing up for a session, or if I had not received a confirmation email?

Only registered volunteers who receive the confirmation email from NLB can volunteer for the session.

10. Will training be provided before I volunteer?

Yes. Depending on the task, you will receive training on the day itself through hands-on guidance and/or on-site briefing.
For some roles, there may be additional training provided. If your volunteer role requires additional training, we will get in touch with you beforehand.

11. What is the dress code for volunteers?

We recommend comfortable attire such as a T-shirt/ shirt/ polo tee/ blouse with long pants, and covered shoes. Bring a jacket as it can get chilly in our libraries and archives. Do avoid any sleeveless t-shirt/ blouse, shorts or miniskirt, sandals, slippers, open-toed and high-heeled shoes.

12. When will my volunteering hours be updated?

You can print a record of your volunteering hours after logging into your account under My Contributions. We will update your volunteering hours monthly (except for LearnX Community and KidsRead*). You can check your contribution on the last day of the first week of the following month.
*For volunteers from LearnX Community and KidsRead, please email enquiry@nlb.gov.sg for more information.

13. Will NLB issue certificates or testimonials as proof of my volunteering efforts?

No, NLB does not provide testimonial or certificates. You can download your volunteering records from the portal as official documentation of your volunteering commitment with us.

14. What are the benefits of volunteering with National Library Board?

We value the dedication and commitment of our volunteers, which is why we have established a Rewards and Recognition Framework to show our appreciation. Our volunteers can look forward to rewards at different tiers i.e. Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum based on the number of volunteering hours contributed. Each tier unlocks exclusive rewards and recognition opportunities to celebrate their meaningful contributions such as invitations to special NLB events.
Gold and Platinum tier volunteers who complete more than 100 volunteering hours within a calendar year will also enjoy a complimentary library membership upgrade with an increase in library loan quota.

15. Can schools/corporate groups volunteer too?

Yes! We welcome both schools and corporate groups as volunteers. Simply drop us an email at enquiry@nlb.gov.sg and we will recommend suitable opportunities that best match your groups interests and requirements.

16. Need help finding something specific?

Drop us an email at enquiry@nlb.gov.sg and we will be happy to help!