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#Call for Volunteer Docents

Jacksonville Public Library is accepting applications now through July 22, 2023, for Volunteer Docent Tour Guides to assist with the Americans and the Holocaust traveling exhibition.

The Library will host the exhibition from September 1, 2023 - October 13, 2023. Docents will play a vital role in the exhibit by providing tours that encourage a meaningful experience for groups of all ages.

For more information about the exhibit, please visit our blog.

Position Description:

Volunteer docents lead 20 to 25-minute tours of the Americans and the Holocaust traveling exhibition for library visitors at the Jacksonville Public Library. Using the exhibition content and a guided script, docents help visitors understand the two fundamental questions posed by the exhibition: “What did Americans know?” and “What more could have been done?” Docents must be able to adapt their tour for large groups, small groups and visitors of various ages.

Position Commitments:

• Attend 4 total hours of training (over two days).
  • One day during the week of August 7 - 12 and
  • One day during the week of August 14 - 18

• Successfully present a sample tour for staff during the week of August 21 - 25
• Commit to 6 hours per week (two 3-hour shifts or one full day) during the exhibition’s installation from September 1, 2023 – October 13, 2023
• Successfully pass a criminal background check
• Docents will be expected to follow all Jacksonville Public Library policies

Qualifications:

• Must be enthusiastic about history and have the desire to share this information with others
• Must be comfortable with public speaking and working with a diverse audience
• Must communicate effectively and be able to convey information in an interesting manner
• Must be open and responsive to comments and questions from visitors
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must adhere to ADA regulations and provide suitable accommodations for customers

Benefits:

• Gain practical work experience in a cultural institution
• Join a community of volunteers
• Learn about the library’s collections and resources
• Obtain validated parking during volunteer shifts
• Receive a copy of The Complete Maus by Art Spiegelman
• Two complimentary tickets to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville

Other Important Dates:

• Interviews will take place July 17 - 29
• The first scheduled tour for the public will be on September 5