Become a Read Aloud Delaware volunteer

Spend part of your week sharing books with young children in your community.

Read Aloud Delaware volunteers read with one child at a time at a local preschool, childcare center or kindergarten. As you return each week, you’ll get to know the children and discover the books they enjoy.

You don’t need teaching experience or a lesson plan. Most readers commit about 90 minutes to two hours once a week.

Choose your county to apply:

Questions about volunteering

You’ll read with one child at a time in your assigned classroom. Each reading session usually lasts five to 15 minutes, giving you time to share books with several children during your visit.
Your role is to read and talk with the child about the pictures and story.
No teaching experience is needed, and there is no lesson to prepare. You’ll share age-appropriate children’s books. Read Aloud Delaware staff will explain what to expect before you begin.
Read Aloud Delaware works with preschools, childcare centers and kindergarten programs throughout New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties. Staff will help you find an available placement in your preferred county.
You’ll be assigned to a specific class and return to the same setting each week.
Complete the online volunteer application for the county where you would like to serve.
Staff will explain any required background checks and arrange your placement with a participating center.
Readers are community volunteers recruited and placed by Read Aloud Delaware. They do not need teaching experience. Read Aloud Delaware prepares them for what to expect before they begin.
Adult volunteers must complete the required background checks before placement.
Volunteer readers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers 18 and older must complete the required background check process.
Volunteers 18 and older must complete a fingerprinted criminal background check.
If you have not lived in Delaware for the past five years or do not permanently reside in Delaware, additional background checks are required. Some states charge for these reports, and volunteers are responsible for those fees. Staff can explain which requirements apply to you.
A regular weekly commitment is expected. If you need to miss a visit, follow the communication process provided by Read Aloud Delaware or your assigned center.
Yes. Volunteers can help with office support, special events and other projects. You can also donate children's books or dress up as a storybook character for special events. Contact your county office to learn about available opportunities.
Yes! Read Aloud Delaware welcomes businesses interested in supporting the program. We’re happy to arrange a group volunteer visit or discuss sponsorship opportunities. Contact your county office to learn more.