Text 1: My first month at the library, by Bethan Price

An original contemporary blog.

I started volunteering at the library in September. On my first morning, the librarian showed me how the books are arranged and where to find the returns trolley. She gave me a short list of jobs, including shelving returned books and putting the newspapers out. I was nervous about using the computer, so she stayed beside me while I learned how to record a book that had been borrowed.

Now I work there every Wednesday. If I am unsure where a book belongs, I can check the shelf labels or ask the librarian. She also checks my shelving at the end of each shift and points out anything I have missed. I have started helping visitors find books, too, but the librarian is nearby if someone needs more help.

Text 2: A note from a library volunteer, by Martin Shaw

An original contemporary newsletter extract.

When I began helping at our village library, another volunteer spent the first few afternoons working with me. She explained how to sort the books that had been returned and showed me how to put them back in the right section. I was given a small guide to keep at the desk, with a list of the library’s opening and closing jobs.

The volunteers take turns at the desk, so there is always someone experienced on the same shift as me. If a visitor asks for a book I cannot find, I ask that person to help. Once a month, the volunteer coordinator meets with us to hear what is working well and answer questions. I have become more confident since I started.

Using information from both texts, explain briefly how the volunteers were helped to do their work. You should make it clear which text you are referring to. You may wish to consider how they were shown what to do, what guidance they could use and who they could ask for help.