The New York State Library's Manuscripts and Special Collections program was established in 1881. Its responsibilities include acquiring, preserving, and providing access to the Library's collections of manuscripts and personal papers; rare books; and special collections including prints, posters and broadsides, and musical scores. These collections, which include some of New York's documentary treasures, relate the history of New York State from the 17th century to the present and provide insight into many topics related to American history, literature, science, and the arts.
The selected intern will assist with the following duties:
- Processing new collections.
- Rehousing/relocating existing collections.
- Creating/editing finding aids.
- Using Springshare software (LibAnswers) to answer patron questions and track reference statistics.
- Special research and other projects as assigned.
The intern will primarily be working with a large railroad-related collection.
Providing access to collections is a core mission of MSC. Staff process collections and work on providing access to them on a daily basis. Interns will work directly with librarians in the unit to assist with this mission, experiencing real-world applications for theories learned in the classroom.
The New York State Library also offers many public programs covering a range of topics from New York State history, education, copyright law, and more. Interns will be encouraged to attend those programs of interest.
This position is open to matriculated graduate students with preference for students in programs related to Libraries, Information Science, History, Literature, or a related field.
Interns may work up to 29 hours per week, Tuesday through Friday, with flexible hours between 8a-5p.
To apply for this position, please send your resume, cover letter, transcript (unofficial is acceptable), and signed application to Internships@nysed.gov with the code OCE-SU24-4U in your subject line. Failure to send complete applications or follow the instructions will result in your removal from consideration for this position.
Elizabeth Jakubowski