The National Library of Wales’ volunteering scheme has been recognised with an Investing in Volunteers achiever award.
Volunteering plays a vital role in the Aberystwyth-based library’s work and is highlighted in the 2025-‘30 Strategic Plan. Receiving the UK’s Investing in Volunteers quality standard for best practice in volunteer management recognises the hard work in building an inclusive, inspiring and well-supported volunteering scheme.
Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, library chief executive, said:“We are extremely proud to have achieved the Investing in Volunteers accreditation. It is an acknowledgment of the library’s outstanding work in this area.
“Volunteers are an important part of the library’s life and the assessors have seen that volunteering is an activity that is deeply embedded in the library. We greatly benefit from the work done by volunteers, as they contribute to a variety of projects.
“In turn, volunteers benefit from their experiences and being part of the library community enriches their lives.”
Volunteer Mike Powdrill said: “I started volunteering at The National Library of Wales after struggling with my mental health. The work is enjoyable – and has purpose – and the staff and volunteers are fantastic company.
“The volunteering scheme offers me all the essentials for a healthy mind and lifestyle – getting out of the house, an occupation and social interaction. The staff are very supportive.”
As well as meeting the overall criteria set by Investing in Volunteers, a number of strengths were identified during the assessment.
The library attracts a diverse range of volunteers, in relation to age, nationality, neurodiversity, sexuality and gender, as well as mental and physical health. This diversity brings wider skills, experience and expertise to volunteering, reported the assessment.
It was also noted that volunteers feel well and pro-actively supported, giving them confidence and are valued by volunteering team staff.
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It’s great to see the National Library of Wales supporting volunteers. Their involvement can really enrich the library’s offerings and create stronger community ties. It’d be interesting to see how this initiative evolves over time!