Why Volunteer? Let’s Hear What a Newbie Has to Say…

We need you! The Gaithersburg Book Festival depends on more than 200 volunteers to help us put on an event that is quickly becoming one of the best literary events in the Mid-Atlantic! No experience is necessary. All we ask is that you bring a warm smile and a helpful attitude! We’ll bring the award-winning authors, once in a lifetime opportunities and your very own volunteer t-shirt.

So why volunteer? Sure, our long-time volunteers have their many reasons for doing so. But why does a newbie decide to volunteer. Here’s what motivated Ida Jones.

“This is my first volunteer opportunity with the GBF. I have volunteered for other events throughout the Metro area and would like to engage authors in the VIP Hospitality Lounge or possibly in one of the Author Pavilion tents during their talks.

“I decided to become a volunteer after having been a featured author. In 2014, I was paired with another History Press author talking about historic Washington, D.C. During my shared session, the train rumbled along with perfectly timed toots that impaired by ability to hear myself – but the audience remained attentive and the media coverage all but muffled the sound of the toots. I was sold at that moment. Being in a space with readers, writers and future bibliophiles was heartwarming.

“Meeting other volunteers also contributed to my decision to volunteer this year.”

And while Ida doesn’t have years of festival volunteering to her name, she still has advice for new volunteers.

“As a veteran volunteer – and inaugural GBF volunteer – this day is one moment in time. So enjoy the moment and stay in the moment.”

What author would be Ida’s dream author to see at the Gaithersburg Book Festival?

“My favorite author is Laura Joh Rowland. She has just completed her series on Sano Ichiro. She is still writing in another genre but I would love to meet her in person.”

Interested in volunteering? Just fill out the Volunteer Application.