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Books in Homes USA Readers Bureau
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Description
Books in Homes USA is launching a new Volunteer Readers Bureau - a network of enthusiastic volunteers who love reading aloud and want to share that joy with children across the country. This new initiative will allow schools and educators to request a virtual guest reader for classroom story times and literacy events.
We’re currently gauging interest and building our volunteer roster as we finalize the program structure. Volunteers who sign up now will be among the first to receive updates and invitations when reading opportunities become available.
What Volunteer Readers Will Do
- Participate in virtual reading sessions with elementary classrooms (grades K-4)
- Share stories that inspire curiosity, empathy, and a love of books
- Encourage conversation and engagement with young readers
- Receive reading requests from Books in Homes USA with date, time, and book details
- Confirm interest and availability for specific sessions
Requirements
- Passion for literacy and working with children
- Comfortable reading aloud and engaging virtually with young students
- Reliable internet and camera access for virtual sessions
- Completion of required child-safety clearances prior to participation, including:
- Child Abuse History Clearance
- State Police Criminal Record Check
- FBI Fingerprinting Background Check
- Volunteers living outside Pennsylvania may submit equivalent state-level background checks that meet their state’s requirements for working with minors.
- Books in Homes USA will provide guidance and support for completing these clearances, and existing documentation from another organization may be accepted if current and valid.
Why Volunteer
- Inspire a lifelong love of reading in children who need it most
- Connect with classrooms nationwide from the comfort of home
- Join a growing community of readers and literacy advocates
- Help Books in Homes USA expand access to joyful reading experiences
Next Steps
We’re currently gathering interest as we prepare to launch the Readers Bureau in the coming months. If you’d like to be part of this new volunteer community, please complete our interest form. We’ll contact you with details about onboarding, required clearances, and upcoming reading opportunities.
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Please complete the short application form and share any relevant examples of your work or experience, such as classroom reading, literacy activities, or public speaking. Work samples are optional, and links or brief descriptions are preferred over file uploads.
All prospective volunteers will be invited to a short Zoom conversation, about 10 to 15 minutes, with a Books in Homes USA team member before being added to the Readers Bureau roster. This helps us learn more about your interests, confirm technology access, and review the required child-safety clearances.
Books in Homes USA will provide full guidance for completing the necessary clearances and onboarding steps after your interview.
