The Garden Bookstore is a busy retail shop and one of the first places that visitors engage with the Garden.
The Bookstore and the Plant Shop are sister stores and share the same staff; however the Plant Shop has separate volunteers. The Bookstore is focused on customer service and can be fast-paced. Multi-tasking is generally required, though some days there is time for projects and browsing books.
Bookstore Volunteers work mostly outdoors in our open air register area under an awning. Volunteers greet customers, answer questions, and assist staff with projects. Volunteer shifts are always staff supported.
For new volunteers: Training takes time, and so we train 1- 2 new volunteers per month. Please reach out to the Retail Manager Whitney Ochoa, to schedule at wochoa@gggp.org. After your first shift, then you’ll be able to use the calendar below. Please see other new volunteer information below.
A big thank you to all of our past, present, and future volunteers!
We couldn't do it without you!
The bookstore is open daily. The hours change with the seasons between 10-4pm or 5pm, but volunteer shifts are consistent year round either 10am-1pm or 1pm-4pm.
Customer Service- interacting with the public and assisting visitors with book, plant, and garden information
Projects- setting up displays, organizing, labeling, etc.
Working alongside the Plant Shop volunteers and staff, as well as Retail staff
Retail Manager, Whitney Ochoa, wochoa@gggp.org.
Physical Requirements: This position requires volunteers to stand for long periods of time, climbing stairs, and the ability to lift up to 15 lbs. However, if you need help with something, please let us know.
What does training look like? Once you have completed a volunteer application and orientation, and scheduled your first shift with the Retail Manager, then you're ready for your first training shift. We'll review the spaces, customer service, and store operations, as well as get familiar with the point of sale system. The first shift is a trial to see if the store is a good fit.
Volunteer schedule: Weekly volunteer shifts are recommended, especially in the beginning. Many volunteers sign-up once a week or every other week. The Bookstore is not great for occasional volunteering, as it’s harder to retain training and knowledge of store items.
Weather: Bookstore Volunteers are called off if there is a 70% chance of rain or higher. Our staff will check in with you about other inclement weather such as wind, cold, and occasionally heat! We recommend everyone do what they are most comfortable with. No one should be miserable at the bookstore!
Check in before shift: No need to arrive any earlier then scheduled. Once you are at the garden, please check in at the admission kiosk before you arrive at the bookstore. Your volunteer hours will be recorded automatically, so no need to check out when leaving.
Take care of yourself! Please stay home if you are not feeling well. It is ok to cancel your shift at anytime.