This week is National Volunteer Week and the Seattle Public Library is celebrating by recognizing the extraordinary services contributed by its dedicated volunteers.

Established in 1974, National Volunteer Week is about inspiring, recognizing and encouraging people to seek out imaginative ways to engage in their communities. The theme for 2012 is "Celebrating People in Action."

SPL has over 350 volunteers who provide services for patrons, help maintain collections and host special events for the community.

"I believe in giving back to the community, and love to teach and have computer knowledge, so when I saw an announcement for library volunteers, I applied and have been helping out ever since," said Art Kuniyuki, a volunteer at the Library since 2001. "My goal each class is to have students walk away with more knowledge than when they entered the classroom, and in return, I always leave the classroom feeling very energized and proud of what our program is accomplishing in the community."

There are many volunteer opportunities available at the library for adults as well as high school students who can obtain service-learning hours for graduation requirements.

The Library is currently seeking Homework Help volunteers to help children and teens with homework and developing academic skills, especially volunteers with English and mathematics expertise.

For more information, visit http://www.spl.org or contact Anne Vedella, Library volunteer coordinator, at 206-386-4664 or anne.vedella@spl.org.