Summer Scholars Internship
The Smithsonian Libraries and Archives provides students in library, archival, information science, and related disciplines a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with expert libraries and Archives staff to acquire the latest skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed for today’s information and cultural heritage workplace. Through this program, we aim to help diversify the library, archive, and museum fields by providing guided learning opportunities to students and other qualified candidates from varied economic, cultural, social, and educational backgrounds. In addition to opportunities specific to their project, interns will participate in activities designed to enhance their learning experience, including tours, presentations, and informational interviews. All Smithsonian Libraries and Archives interns prepare a blog post summarizing their work.
This program is geared towards students who are enrolled in a college undergraduate or graduate program. Candidates who are not students should be prepared to describe how this opportunity will enhance their educational background.
Interns are eligible for a stipend of $700 a week (pro-rated if part-time). Appointees who perform their internship on-site may be eligible for an additional one-time travel allowance to offset relocation expenses. Dates are flexible but a June start date is preferred.
Through their application materials, including a resume and essay, candidates should be sure to demonstrate the following:
-Interest in learning about libraries, archives, and museums, particularly as it relates to their selected project areas.
-How the candidate’s background and experiences have prepared them for this opportunity.
-How this opportunity will enhance the student’s learning or contribute to their future career goals.
Applications must be submitted through the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointmentssystem (SOLAA). Applicants should select “Smithsonian Libraries and Archives” as the unit and the “Smithsonian Libraries and Archives Summer Scholars” program. Applicants may choose up to two projects for consideration.
The following items must be included and uploaded into the SOLAA system as part of your application:
-Essay of 500 to 1,000 words describing your learning objectives, qualifications, and career aspirations and how they relate to this internship.
-Transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended. Unofficial transcripts may be uploaded into SOLAA. Do not mail physical copies.
-CV/Resume
-Contacts for two professional or academic recommendations.The candidate inputs names and emails into the SOLAA application system. References are automatically sent an electronic survey and have an opportunity to upload a traditional reference letter. Candidate should be sure to communicate this process to their references and input email addresses accurately.
For questions regarding this opportunity, please contact: SLAIntern@si.edu