FAQs Reading/Math/French Buddies Program

To help ensure the program runs smoothly, please review the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for teen volunteers:
1. How do I add hours?
Please check the link here.
2. My parent/buddy isn’t responding. What should I do?
Volunteers must use all communication channels -- email, call, and text. If you’ve tried all of these and still haven’t received a response, please contact Virgilio so he can follow up with the parent.
3. Can I ask a library staff where my buddy is?
No. APL staff do not know your meeting location. You must coordinate directly with your buddy/parent via email or mobile.
4. Can I use alternative resources or play-based activities?
Yes. All worksheets are available at Desk 2. You may ask staff to show you where they are.
5. Is my buddy allowed at behind Desk 2?
No. Only volunteers may pick up materials from the cabinet.
6. Can I use a device during the program?
No. Devices should not be used while the program is in session.
7. When do I need to bring my volunteer form?
If you decide you will no longer be volunteering at the library, please let me know so I can sign off your form. You only need one signature to cover all your completed volunteer hours at the library.
8. I need more hours. Can I still volunteer?
Yes, just look for opportunities available in the calendar of the volunteer portal. You need to respond in order to be included in the opportunity.
9. Can I extend my 10 sessions with my current buddy?
No. Contact Virgilio as you will need to be paired with another buddy who is on the waitlist.
10. I’m done with my 10 hours with my buddy. Should I bring my volunteer form to the library?
It depends. If you plan to continue volunteering at the library to earn more hours, we recommend waiting until you have completed all of them before submitting your form. If you are finished volunteering, you can bring it to Virgilio every Monday between 4pm and 5pm. Please note that the library only provides a single signature for your total accumulated hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Parents

1. What is the Reading & Math Buddies program?
It is a free library program that pairs children with trained volunteers or teens to support reading and basic math skills through fun, guided activities.
2. What age group is this program for?
The program is typically designed for Preschool to Grade 6 levels.
3. Do children need to register in advance?
Yes. Registration is usually required because spaces are limited and sessions are matched based on availability of teen volunteer. To register, please see the link below:

Reading

Form – Reading Buddies – Child Application

Math

Form – Math Buddies – Child Application

4. I have completed the registration form. What’s next?
Thank you for registering! Due to the high volume of applications, there is currently a waitlist. The time it takes to be matched with a teen volunteer depends on the number of volunteer applications the library receives.
5. How long is each session?
Each session will last 60 minutes. Pairs will meet once a week over a 10-week period. Meetings beyond the scheduled weekly session are discouraged, as they will not be counted toward teen volunteer hours.
6. What happens during a session?
Children work one-on-one with a buddy. Activities may include reading aloud, phonics games, number exercises, puzzles, and interactive learning games. All resources are available at Desk 2 (2nd floor).
7. Do parents need to stay during the session?
Parents are welcome to stay inside the library during the session; however, remaining with their child during the program is discouraged to help ensure that buddies can work together independently.
8. What should my child bring?
Nothing is required. Children are welcome to bring any references they can use for their sessions.
9. Is this tutoring or school homework help?
No. This is not formal tutoring or homework completion. It is a literacy and numeracy support program focused on building confidence and skills.
10. What if my child is shy or struggling?
Buddies are trained to be patient and supportive. Activities are adapted to each child’s comfort level, and participation is always encouraged but never forced.
11. What if my child is shy or struggling?
Buddies are trained to be patient and supportive. Activities are adapted to each child’s comfort level, and participation is always encouraged but never forced.
12. Can parents give feedback or request support?
Yes. Parents are encouraged to share feedback with library staff so the program can better meet each child’s needs.
13. How can I cancel or reschedule?
Parents should contact the library as soon as possible so the spot can be offered to another child.
14. What if the teen volunteer does not respond to my email/text/call?
Parents should contact Virgilio to discuss the issue.
15.Can I extend my 10 sessions with my current buddy?
No. Please submit a new online form upon completion of the program. Early registration while currently participating is not allowed.
16.How do I coordinate my schedule with the teen volunteer?
Once you have been paired with a teen volunteer and receive a confirmation email from Virgilio, the volunteer will contact you to discuss your availability. Together, you can arrange a mutually convenient time to meet at the library.