Book Binder-Make Buddhist Books in Northern California!

About Us

Join us for 6 or more months in an incredible opportunity to live and work at a rural Buddhist center surrounded by the serene beauty of forested hills, redwoods, abundant wildlife, gardens, and prayer flags. Ratna Ling Volunteer Work Study Program is seeking enthusiastic individuals to help preserve Buddhist teachings by printing, binding, and giving away Buddhist books to serious practitioners in Asia (and also books for us!). Our book bindery is a space of creativity and dedication, where ancient and sacred Tibetan Buddhist texts are lovingly restored and reproduced.

Please visit the Tibetan Sacred Text Preservation recruitment page on our volunteer website to learn more.

Position Overview

As a Book Binder Volunteer, you will be an integral part of our tight-knit team, contributing to the preservation of Tibetan Buddhist knowledge for the benefit of the global community. No prior experience is required; your energy, dedication, and willingness to learn are what truly matter. You will work alongside like-minded individuals, engaging in physically demanding yet spiritually fulfilling work that supports our mission of giving back to the Tibetan community in exile.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with fellow volunteers to produce collections of ancient and sacred Tibetan Buddhist texts.
• Learn bookbinding techniques and utilize equipment to print, bind, box, and ship beautiful texts.
• Participate in wrapping sacred texts in ornamental cloth and preparing them for shipping.
• Engage in weekly community activities such as gardening, landscaping, and kitchen work.
• Embrace inner growth and self-development as you embody the principles of Skillful Means in your daily work.
• Attend optional morning meditations and explore Buddhist and related studies through free classes.
• Contribute to an environment where meaningful work, personal development, and building interpersonal relationships are valued.

What You Will Receive

• Free on-site housing amidst the natural beauty of coastal redwoods.
• Wholesome vegetarian meals provided at no cost.
• Free laundry, WiFi, and domestic phone calls.
• Monthly living allowance of $200.00 for incidentals.
• Opportunity for introspection and personal growth through daily work and engagement.
• Access to a variety of Buddhist and related studies classes.
• Supportive community encouraging genuine connections and relationships.
• Proximity to hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean, fostering a sense of tranquility and exploration.

Qualifications

• A sincere interest in inner development and an openness to techniques which are based in the Buddhist tradition.
• Mechanical aptitude is a plus but not mandatory.
• Strong work ethic, high energy, and a positive attitude.
• Ability to commit to a rigorous weekly schedule (6 days a week).

Join us in a unique and transformative experience, where your dedication as a Book Binder Volunteer will contribute to the preservation of ancient wisdom and the inner growth of both yourself and the Tibetan community. Immediate start is available!

Please note: We are a vaccinated community. All volunteers and visitors are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid before arrival. 

To embark on this rewarding journey, please download your application and send it to volunteer@ratnaling.org with the subject line: "Book Binder Volunteer Application - [Your Full Name]".

Include the following:

• Resume highlighting any relevant experience or skills (though none are required).
• A brief cover letter expressing your interest in the role, and your connection to Buddhism or spiritual exploration.

Or Contact Us to ask questions, share your aspirations, or request the application be emailed to you.

We look forward to hearing from you!