PLoTs cannot run unless there are volunteers to make sure the items and equipment are well maintained and the borrowing is properly managed, along with a wide range of other tasks that help us meet the needs of the community in the best ways that we can.
Why pick PLoTs?
A successful Library of Things helps individuals, communities and ultimately the planet.
A great local example is The Edinburgh Tool Library, ETL. It started small, like PLoTs is now. After just seven years, in 2022, ETL had 1,350 members, of whom a third were on benefits, and had achieved an estimated carbon saving of over 220 tons.
By helping to run PLoTs, you help Members save money, have fun developing skills, and achieve the satisfaction of repairing, recycling and reusing to go easy on the planet.
What does a PLoTs volunteer do?
PLoTs is run 100% by volunteers, so as a team volunteers do everything. This means you will be appreciated whatever sort of contribution you would like to make.
PLoTs is new. Perhaps you would like to be part of the leadership team seeking to expand PLoTs, perhaps starting workshops and a newsletter. Maybe you know how to use and maintain tools? Or what about being there, so members can collect and return items?
The Volunteer Application Form has a list to tick what interest you:
Tools related tasks
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- checking, maintaining, repairing, keeping the store clean and organised
- training others how to work safely
- expanding the stock of items.
People related activity
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- running the PLoTs pick up and return sessions at the Pen-y-Coe Press
- volunteer wellbeing and co-ordination
- networking with other organisations such as Circular Communities Scotland.
Management and Administration
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- MyTurn (library software) admin and data updates; user support
- social media, website (wordpress) updates, PLoTs member communications
- book keeping.
Leadership and Future Planning
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- resolving any issues to keep PLoTs running as smoothly as possible
- Planning the future growth and development of PLoTs.
You can also say how much time you are able to commit and how much responsibility you would be comfortable taking… not everyone has room for more pressure in their lives.
What do people get from volunteering?
People choose to be volunteers for all sorts of reasons. It is well known that volunteers get a lot of satisfaction from being appreciated as part of a team that is making a positive difference in their community.
Volunteers also have opportunity to develop their own skills. This includes career-building transferable skills gained by performing your voluntary role. In addition, for PLoTs volunteers, you can enhance your practical tools use and craft skills by arranging and joining in PLoTs activities.
For many there is pleasure and companionship in being a volunteer.
Do I need previous experience to volunteer?
Enthusiasm, commitment and team spirt, plus some time, are the only essentials for being a great volunteer!
How do I apply?
You can fill in the online application form or pop into the Pen-y-Coe Press to pick up paper copy of the form.
Alternatively, if a conversation would be helpful before you apply, get in touch using our contact page or by emailing things@penicuik.org.uk
Volunteers are the lifeblood of PLoTs; and we always enjoy welcoming more!