The impact of Glasgow Life Volunteering
Volunteering
As one of Scotland’s largest charities, we offer diverse volunteering opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.
Our volunteers play a vital role in helping us to connect local communities with culture, learning and active living. They are a source of support, information and inspiration for people across Glasgow and we are deeply grateful for their passion, commitment and impact.
How do volunteers support Glasgow Life?
Throughout 2024/25, more than 1,600 volunteers supported our services, programmes and events, collectively donating nearly 25,000 hours of their time.
Those volunteering hours had a value of around £410,000.
Social Reminiscence and Memory Groups
In partnership with Memories Scotland, volunteers facilitate informal groups at Glasgow Libraries to provide an opportunity to reminisce and share memories about times gone by.
In 2025-2026 we have had 240 attendances at our social reminiscence and memories groups, one of the attendees describing her experience said “Have a cuppa and a biscuit, enjoy an hour of reminiscing about life in general, a nice chat and meet new people. I really enjoy going there, different every time.”
Macmillan @ Glasgow Libraries
Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Volunteers deliver drop in services for anyone affected by cancer to access reliable information, emotional support and a listening ear.
Macmillan @ Glasgow Libraries has provided support and information to over 20,500 people affected by cancer since it began in 2012. One of the customers, when asked about the service they received, said “Without Macmillan @ Glasgow Libraries I’d feel so isolated, scared and alone. The volunteers were great, made me relax.”
Coding Clubs
Glasgow Libraries offer a network of free coding clubs, known as CoderDojos, where children and young people can learn how to be creative with code, while having fun and making new friends.
At the clubs, volunteer Mentors inspire the next generation of digital makers by helping them learn to code in a fun and sociable environment.
Wee Write Book Festival
Wee Write Family Day takes place once a year in the Mitchell Library. It is a one-day book festival celebrating children’s literature with author and illustrator events. Wee Write volunteers help by assisting audience members within the venue and with event set-up.
One of our 2026 Wee Write Book Festival Volunteers had this to say after the event:
“I enjoy volunteering at this event because it gives me the opportunity to meet new people and improve my communication skills. I also like exploring new experiences and learning different things.
It’s a great way to build connections, and I value the friendships I can form with my fellow volunteers.”
Musical Instrument Lending Library
We Make Music Instrument Library volunteers help borrowers feel more comfortable picking up their instrument of choice, often for the first time. In addition to being shown how to hold it comfortably, borrowers will have the opportunity to learn how to tune the instrument and be signposted to music groups throughout the city who can help support them on their musical journey. 30 minute sessions booked through Eventbrite or drop-in on the day (time permitting).
Digi-PALS volunteers are on hand in Libraries and will happily help individuals. During these drop-in sessions our friendly volunteers can assist with various digital and online activities.
Our Museums offer a wide range of roles including;
Volunteer Collection Guides showcase our venues treasured collections in guided tours, whether they are leading a guided walk of the highlights or giving detailed introductions to a gallery.
Learning and Access Volunteers assist Museum staff deliver workshops to families and school groups, this includes our school holiday programmes and events like Lunar New Year Celebrations.
Curatorial Volunteers help research objects from our vast collections, enhancing knowledge of objects, and Volunteer Conservators assist conservation staff.
Good Move Health Walk Leaders are at each walk to make sure you go at a comfortable pace. Health Walks last around an hour, and we want to make sure you get the most out of it. They're also a chance to take in the sights and sounds of Glasgow's beautiful parks and green spaces.
Aye Write Book Festival is a highly popular celebration of books featuring events showcasing established authors and the next generation of writers.
Volunteers help support and enhance our customers’ enjoyment of the festival. Our volunteers bring a wealth of skills and experience with many returning year after year.
Festival Volunteers support the smooth running of Celtic Connections, by assisting festival staff and the wider festival community with errands and tasks, and by providing general festival information to artists and the public. We are grateful for the time, passion, skills and commitment our volunteers give to the festival, and welcome new and returning volunteers each year.