Library Cataloguing Intern

The American Philosophical Society is seeking applicants for a paid Cataloguing Department internship.

The successful candidate will report to the Assistant Head of Cataloguing and gain practical experience in a professional library setting through experience in creating catalogue records for rare books and pamphlets, maps, broadsides and graphics. The intern will be expected to write a blog about the internship, and to give an informal talk to library staff.

About the Library: Founded in 1743, The American Philosophical Society’s Library, located near Independence Hall in Philadelphia, is a leading international center for research in the History of American science and technology and its European roots, as well as early American history and culture. The Library houses over 13 million manuscript leaves, 275,000 volumes and bound periodicals, thousands of prints and maps, and large audio, video, and digital holdings. Outstanding historical collections and subject areas include the papers of Benjamin Franklin (14,000 letters and documents); Jefferson’s holograph of the Declaration of Independence; western scientific expeditions and travel including the original journals of Lewis and Clark; polar exploration; history of physics and 20th-century medical research.

Cataloguing Department: Staff consists of the Head of Cataloguing and Assistant Head of Cataloguing, who report to the Curator of Printed Materials. Together they are responsible for the acquisition, cataloguing, and organization of all library printed materials.

Stipend: $2,580 for 172 hours during fall semester (September through December).

Qualifications: Applicants currently should be enrolled in or graduated from a graduate-level library science program; and preference will be given to candidates who have strong organizational skills and a keen interest in learning cataloguing practices.

The American Philosophical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Successful applicants will be asked to show proof that they legally can work in the United States.

The work of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance is made possible through the generous support of committed individuals and institutions.