Archival Processing Internship

Tasks & Responsibilities:

• Enhanced description of series within textual collections
• Listing out contents of boxes to facilitate access
• Creating metadata according to Library and NARA standards
• Assisting with holdings maintenance
• Basic preservation work on textual records

Professional Development Opportunities:

• The intern will gain practical experience in applying fundamental archival principles.
• This includes learning the basics of archival processing, along with best practices for creating metadata and describing archival materials.

Work Environment:

• Most work will be performed sitting and typing at a computer, however interns should also be physically able to push carts, climb ladders, and handle boxes of archival records potentially weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

• Educational Level/Program:
• Current or former bachelor's degree or graduate student
• Degree program in library science or history is preferred
• Qualifications:
• Coursework or practical experience in archival work including holdings maintenance, processing, or description
• Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
• Can work independently and effectively
• Attention to detail

Schedule:

• Internship Date Options:
• 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
• 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
• Weekly Schedule Options:
• 10 hours per week
• 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Archival Processing

The selecting official for this internship may also request a letter of recommendation.