Meet Bookshop Volunteer, Nick: ‘Volunteering helps give your structure to your day’ 

The UK’s largest Shared Reading charity is celebrating its amazing team of volunteers throughout June inspired by Volunteers’ Week 2025, Monday 2 June – Sunday 8 June.  

NAME: Nick 

WHERE DO YOU VOLUNTEER? The Reader Bookshop, Calderstones Park, Liverpool

ROLE: Reader Bookshop volunteer 

WHY DID YOU WANT TO VOLUNTEER WITH THE READER? In my working life I helped recruit, train and support thousands of volunteers so I am aware how important they are to an organisation. Living local, I have followed the progress of the charity and strongly identified with its ethos and values. I was impressed with how volunteers are at the core of The Reader and with the variety of roles on offer 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE? Volunteering helps give you structure to your day – which I find important. Working in The Reader Bookshop is a new experience which has hopefully added to my skill set. It’s a very relaxed environment and gives you a feeling of independence but at the same time always feeling supported.  

The Bookshop is a great place to meet new people and improve or enhance your communication skills. I do have a love of reading and the shop provides many opportunities to discuss books with customers. The children’s section is very popular and it’s lovely to see young children begin to develop their love of books. 

If you would like to find out more about The Reader and the volunteering opportunities, we offer please visit here. Volunteers receive full training and ongoing support from The Reader.  

As a charity we rely on the generous support of individuals and organisations to help us change lives through Shared Reading. A donation allows us to train volunteers, provide resources for groups and help reach more people. We want to make sure everyone can attend a Shared Reading group, no matter their background, income or situation, and we'll be so grateful for your help. Make a donation.