HCT Libraries eVolunteering Program

Abstract

HCT Libraries' PPE (Pivot, Perform, Excel) model implementation provided continuity of services through our e-Volunteering Program in response to the COVID-19 lockdown, enabling it to Connect, Inspire, Enable & Engage with students. We will demonstrate the advantages of using HCT educational technologies, such as LibGuide, Blackboard Learn, and library e-resources, to enable the libraries to Pivot from students' face-to-face volunteering to an online iteration. A Library e-Volunteering Program trial ran in May 2020. It continues to Perform post-lockdown and generate activities that engage students and support them to earn volunteering hour credits to graduate. Our innovative e-Volunteering solution inspired many students to participate and gained strong support from HCT's central Student Life Department. The program synchronized the libraries' efforts to support students while connecting with other departments across 16 campuses. The Program Excelled, growing from 220 e-Volunteers in 2020, completing 797 hours, to 1,282 e-Volunteers in 2021 who completed 1,678 hours. As a result of the Program, students have gained life skills and improved their technical knowledge, communication, and soft skills, such as time management. It is a dedicated platform enabling students to enjoy lifelong learning, find their abilities, and share their passions.