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Community Expert – English Language Conversation Volunteer

Community Expert – English Language Conversation Volunteer

The Community Expert – English Language Conversation Volunteer supports library customers who are learning English by providing opportunities to practice their English through informal conversation.

Using your English language skills, you will meet with a designated learner(s) each week to build their confidence and conversation skills in a welcoming library environment.

Applications

Are you new to volunteering with EPL? If you're interested in this role, click "Apply Now" to create your profile and submit your application.

Are you a current volunteer with EPL? If you're interested in this role, please contact the Volunteer Program Coordinator.

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Volunteer Locations

EPL is currently looking for adult volunteers to support library customers who are learning English by providing opportunities to practice their English through informal conversation. Please see below for available openings:

Woodcroft Branch - 13420 114 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5M 2Y5
Dates: Sundays, October 18 - December 6, 2026
Times: 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Volunteers Needed: 10

Whitemud Crossing Branch (4211 106 Unit 145, Edmonton, AB T6J 6L7
Dates: Tuesdays, October 13 - December 1, 2026
Times: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Volunteers needed: 15

To apply, click the "Apply Now" button at the top of the page. Please ensure to indicate which branch you are interested in on the application form.

What You'll Do

In this role, you will meet with an English Language Learner to support their conversational English skills.

Responsibilities

  • Meet with your designated learner(s) for one hour of conversation each week
  • Meet at a mutually agreed-upon EPL branch
  • Prepare for weekly meetings by identifying possible topics for discussion using examples and resources provided by EPL
  • Help customers practice communication for everyday situations, such as meeting new people, navigating social situations or preparing for an interview
  • Use EPL-provided content and resources where appropriate
  • Attend required training and orientation sessions
  • Follow EPL policies, procedures and volunteer guidelines
  • Report any issues or concerns to the Branch Leadership team or designate

Role Boundaries

  • Do not sell non-EPL services or supplies to customers
  • Do not work with anyone under 18 years of age
  • Must follow EPL's Inclusion and Belonging Policy, Privacy and Confidentiality Policy, Customer Code of Conduct, Dress and Appearance Policy and Volunteer Code of Conduct
  • Must protect customer privacy and confidentiality
  • Do not maintain learner information or data on personal devices or in any other format beyond what is required to coordinate meetings
  • Do not provide counselling or advice related to settlement, employment or other services

Who We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

  • Advanced spoken and written English skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Patience and an understanding of the challenges involved in learning a new language
  • Sensitivity to the needs and experiences of different cultures and newcomers to Canada
  • Ability to work respectfully with diverse populations, including newcomers and English Language Learners
  • Successful completion of the required Police Vulnerable Sector Check

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with English Language Learners
  • Experience teaching English as a second language

Role Details

Program Type: Short-term pilot program

Time Commitment

  • 60 minutes per session
  • Once per week for eight weeks
  • Eight-week commitment per customer

Working Conditions

  • Volunteer will meet with designated learner(s)
  • Sessions take place in person on the public floor of a mutually agreed-upon EPL branch

Participant Group

  • Adults (18+)

Suitable for Volunteers

  • Adults (18+)

Volunteer Commitment

Time Commitment

  • Ability to attend all session dates is required

Orientation / Training

  • Must attend a mandatory orientation/training session (first session date)
  • Ongoing support via Branch program lead

 

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteers will have the opportunity to:

  • Support English Language Learners who want to build their English conversation skills
  • Share their English language skills with members of the community
  • Help learners build confidence communicating in everyday situations