Established in 1818, the New York State Library is comprised of two major units: the Research Library and the Division of Library Development. The Division of Library Development works in partnership with the state’s 72 library systems to bring cost-effective, high quality library services to the millions who use New York’s 7,000 academic, public, school and special libraries. Staff experts work with librarians, trustees, public officials, and local leaders to solve problems and find new ways of making library services and resources available to their communities. Library Development administers more than $130 million in state and federal aid to New York’s libraries and helps libraries take full advantage of federal and private funding programs.
This position provide a unique opportunity to gain a broad understanding of New York's 7,000 libraries, 72 library systems and the services they offer to New York residents.
This intern will work with the State Aid for Library Construction program which provides $44 million in FY2025-2026 for public library construction, renovation and broadband infrastructure projects.
Activities for the student includes, but is not limited to: contacts with customers; meeting planning and organization; exhibits and presentations; report writing; grant-related activities; program planning and coordination; research, data collection; preparing website materials including blog posts etc.; use of online systems; PR and communications, etc.
Graduate Student Interns have multiple opportunities to learn about New York State's statewide library infrastructure of 72 library systems and 7,000 libraries.
Students learn about statewide library programs, policies and procedures from Library Development staff and State Library/OCE leadership. Students meet with Division of Library Development staff individually to learn more about the unit's operations, policies and procedures.
Students learn about state and federal programs related to improving library services. Students receive tours, participate in team, unit, Library-wide, OCE and SED staff meetings, attend Regents meetings and other professional meetings as appropriate, to help them better understand the scope of New York State Library statewide services and programs.
Students receive training in agency/office policies and procedures, use of agency/office hardware and software tools, SED email, numerous online information and data systems and other tools needed to carry out their assignments and projects.
Preference may be given to those who are pursuing a Masters in Library Science or a combined Bachelors/Masters in Library Science or a PhD, and/or those who may be interested in working in other information agency environments upon graduation. However, any student interested in public policy, planning, research and management, political science and government, communications and marketing, history or education would find this position of interest.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (including spreadsheet (Excel) creation, social networking tools, and written and oral communication are highly desirable. Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently are important.
Interns will work no more than 20 hours each week; schedules will be made in conjunction with the supervisor.
Graduate students will earn $19/hour.
To be eligible for the SUNY/SED Program, candidates must be currently matriculated in a degree program at one of our Participating SUNY Institutions. Additionally, candidates must be enrolled in classes during the semester in which they would like to intern. Summer and Winter interns must provide proof of enrollment in classes for the following semester. New York State residency is NOT required. Furthermore, students must meet all of the requirements for being hired as a Student Assistant by their Institution. Please contact your Campus Coordinator directly with any questions about your Institution’s requirements.
To apply, students must submit their resume, transcript, cover letter, and signed application to INTERNSHIPS@nysed.gov, referencing Job ID OCE-SP26-3P in your email subject line. Applications will only be considered complete if they have been signed by both the student AND the designated Campus Coordinator.
Natalie McDonough