The Gabriola Tool Library is a volunteer-run organization — you are our greatest asset!
Volunteer Roles
There are many ways to contribute to the success of a tool library, and we welcome everyone who would like to participate. Our first priority is to provide access to tools and information, including the sharing of skills through workshops and mentorships — to find ways to assist all Gabriolans to take part in creating a resilient, sustainable and affordable community.
The Front Line Crew volunteers commit to taking a shift at the check-in counter, once a week or once a month, or on-call to fill a temporary vacancy. Their job is to welcome new members, to help them find what they need, including learning to use the MyTurn software.
Currently we are open only two days a week, Saturdays from 10 to 2 and Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. Each shift on the Front Line is for two and a half hours, with fifteen minutes on either end of a two-hour stint to open up and/or close the library and to communicate with other volunteers regarding on-going issues. We aim to have two volunteers each shift, to team a new volunteer with one who is more experienced with the software and/or familiar with our inventory. Volunteer Training Sessions will be held frequently, to help new volunteers discover how the library works, and where they best fit into its activities.
The Tool Pool is composed of volunteers who prefer to participate on an as-needed basis, for tasks such as repairing a damaged tool, giving a workshop on safety, preparing a Facebook post, or being a Fixer at a Fix-it Fair. As new donations come in, tools need to be processed: assessed for condition, photographed, entered into the online inventory, inscribed with an identifying number, and cleaned up and serviced ready for use. Volunteers who are willing to help in any part of this process are needed on an on-going basis, both within and outside open hours. We strive to fit volunteers into the tasks that best suit their interests and abilities, so that everyone enjoys their individual place in the team.
The Organizers: Gabriola Tool Library is a non-profit society, registered under the BC Societies Act, and we always need volunteers who are willing to take on some of the administration tasks, including standing as a Member of the Board. You don’t have to be an expert in tools or in libraries, but if you are willing to help guide the activities of the GTL, we want you! New members will be elected at an annual general meeting held in November of each year. Please let us know if you are interested in helping with any aspect of the organizational responsibilities.
Gabriola Tool Library 