INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Research Library & Archives Intern

CompanyThe Detroit Institute of Arts
LocationDetroit
Work ModeOn Site
PostedMarch 3, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The intern will learn the basics of library and archives operations within a museum setting, contributing to key operational factors. Projects may include cataloguing artist files, assisting with book cataloguing, creating archive inventories, conducting shelf reads, and converting finding aids to digital formats.
Internship Type
temporary part time
Company Size
447
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
16 hours
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About The Company
Home to the first van Gogh painting to enter a U.S. museum (Self-Portrait, 1887) and to Diego Rivera's Detroit Industry Murals (1932-33), the Detroit Institute of Arts is known for its quality, range, and depth of collection. The DIA is a gathering place, and strives to create experiences that help each visitor find personal meaning with the art, both individually and with each other. With an expansive collection of over 65,000 works, the DIA has something for everyone. Share your moments with #DIADetroit. Using a visitor-centered approach to add context to art, the DIA is not just for scholars and art aficionados. Whether a painting brings out a smile or chuckle, or a sculpture leads to deep contemplation, the DIA has a passion for connection through its collection. It takes humans to truly bring art to life. Each team member—from environmental services to accounting and curatorial—brings unique skills that directly contribute to the DIA’s mission. Team members are the heart of the DIA and are a vital role in the museum’s goal to be one of the world’s most visitor-friendly museums. Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne county residents enjoy free general admission.
About the Role

POSITION TITLE/DEPARTMENT Research Library & Archives Intern 

CLASSIFICATION/GRADE/SALARY RANGE Part-time, Non-Exempt, Temporary (1 year), 16 hours per week $16.50 per hour  

GENERAL SUMMARY  

As an established and respected organization, the DIA is an excellent place for interns to explore areas of interest in museums and non-profits. Interns will have the opportunity to learn about and contribute to key factors that help the museum to run smoothly. Cohort Interns will work under the guidance and supervision of a DIA professional on specific projects with established learning outcomes. 

 

The Research Library & Archives intern will learn the basics of library and archives operations in a museum environment. Projects may involve cataloguing artist files, assisting with cataloguing of books, creating archive inventories, conducting shelf reads, converting legacy finding aids to digital, and assisting with reference requests, among others. 

 

Tasks will include: 

  • Process various library and/or archival collections
  • Assist with interlibrary loans and cataloguing
  • Maintain inventories in File Maker Pro databases
  • Other projects as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS  

Successful candidates must be a current student in good standing at an ALA accredited graduate student in a Library and Information Science Program. This internship is an onsite opportunity. Candidates must have demonstrated organizational skills and the ability for self-directed work. This internship has a preference for candidates with one year of library experience.  

Proficiency in the latest version of Office 365, including SharePoint, Word, Power Point, Outlook, and Excel is required. 

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an intern to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Upon receiving notice, reasonable accommodations may be made, if possible, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate and exchange accurate information using various methods including in-person, virtual, telephone, and email.  

 

THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER 

Key Skills
Organizational SkillsSelf-directed WorkOffice 365SharePointWordPowerPointOutlookExcelCataloguingArchival ProcessingInventory MaintenanceFile Maker Pro
Categories
Art & DesignAdministrativeScience & Research