Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study - Schlesinger Library Internship
Dates: June 2 – August 2, 2025
Summary of Work Assignment and Responsibilities:
The Digital Collections Intern will support the Schlesinger Library’s Digital Collections and Services (DCS) department, focusing on its digital programs. DCS manages archival digital records through digital reformatting and born-digital programs, overseeing digital conversion for book and paper materials as well as born-digital media.
As part of Harvard Library’s Diversity Internship program, the intern will work on archival collections that align with Harvard Library’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Antiracism (EDIBA) goals. The intern will:
- Spend the first month training and working on preparing book and paper materials for digitization and forensically capturing data from archival computer disks.
- Spend the second month designing and building a digital exhibit using Harvard Library’s CURIOSity platform.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Design, select materials for, and describe a special collections digital exhibit for publication on Harvard Library’s CURIOSity platform.
- Learn digitization workflows and prepare book and paper archival materials for digital reformatting by collating and flagging items for imaging.
- Forensically duplicate data from born-digital carriers (e.g., computer disks) for archival processing and preservation.
- Establish control of born-digital carriers in an inventory tracking database.
- Meet with Schlesinger Library leaders to understand the mission and goals of the organization.
Level of Flexibility:
- Onsite position, working approximately 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to remain stationary for long periods.
- Must be able to lift and move loads weighing over 40 pounds.
Work Environment:
- Work is performed in a library/office setting.
Qualifications:
Basic:
- Current undergraduate or graduate student, or recent graduate of a college or university program.
- Member of a historically underrepresented group.
- Exposure to or interest in digital archives work functions.
- Basic familiarity with a Windows PC environment.
- Familiarity with spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel).
- No mold allergies.
Additional:
- Ability to carry out repetitive tasks with sustained focus.
- Proven attention to detail.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
Compensation and Benefits (Common for All Harvard Library Internships):
- Travel Costs: Covered up to $1,000, including two bags of luggage each way (coordinated by Harvard Library).
- Housing: Double occupancy in a campus-designated apartment (includes bedding, linen, kitchen utensils, and WIFI). Interns are responsible for toiletries and groceries.
- Hourly Pay: $18/hour for 30 hours per week, totaling up to $4,320 (taxable).
- Professional Development: Biweekly opportunities provided.
Application Information:
To apply, submit a cover letter (highlighting how your work and experience align with Harvard University’s values) and a resume as a single PDF file to Dr. Jerome Offord, Jr., AUL and Chief Diversity Officer at HL_EDIBA@harvard.edu.
Deadline: January 17, 2025