“I’ve been working as a volunteer at the Little Museum of Dublin for the last two years and enjoy talking to visitors about my native city. I find that some want to know more about the city’s history and the best visitor experiences, but most want to hear about the stuff you don’t get in the history of guide books. They’ll want to know things like where Bruce Springsteen goes for a pint when he’s in town or where Bono hangs out. I think about what I’d want to learn and do if I visit a place I haven’t been to before. It could be a funny story about a famous figure, or a building or a park which has a particular significance but isn’t mentioned in the official guide, or where locals go to socialise. That’s the kind of thing I remember from my visits to other cities and that’s the kind of thing I like sharing with visitors to Dublin.”
I love the Little Museum, but don’t know much about history – can I still apply?
Yes, the museum wants to involve a wide range of volunteers and develops opportunities to suit people with different levels of knowledge, interest, experience and availability. Opportunities are advertised on the website.
What are a volunteer’s duties?
Volunteers are a vital part of making the museum a friendly and welcoming place for all our visitors. Most of their time is spent engaging visitors in conversation about the exhibits, the museum, and Dublin in general, as well as answering any questions they may have. We ask for a commitment of one day a week, from 10.00 until 4.30, with an hour’s break for lunch, but we can sometimes accommodate volunteers with more (or less) time available.
Is there an age restriction to volunteering?
The museum involves volunteers aged 18 upwards. There is no upper age limit.
What would I get in return for volunteering?
Volunteers are an integral part of the Little Museum family, giving Dublin the world-class city museum that it deserves. We try to ensure that everyone who volunteers enjoys their time at the museum. Volunteering offers the opportunity to meet new people, develop skills and experience, learn more about the history of Dublin and contribute to the ongoing dialogue which the museum inspires. Volunteers may also take advantage of a discount in the museum shop.
I’m looking for a school work experience placement – do you offer these?
Work experience is different from volunteering. Currently the museum does not have the capacity to offer work experience placements, but may do so in the future.
I receive welfare benefits – can I still volunteer?
Yes, you may do some unpaid work as a volunteer and keep your social welfare payment. However, you must continue to meet all the conditions attached to your payment.
How do I apply?
Simply complete the application form and we will contact you.