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Library Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$15 - $20/hr

Posted Job Title Reference Library Intern Job Profile Title Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt Summary The University of Pennsylvania Libraries seeks an energetic reference intern to participate as a ...

Library Intern

Boston, MA · On-site

$15/hr

America's Test Kitchen is seeking two Library Interns, one for the six-month internship starting in July 2026 and one for the six-month internship starting in January 2027. This paid, part-time ...

Posted Job Title AI Literacy Library Intern Job Profile Title Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt Summary The University of Pennsylvania Libraries seeks an energetic AI Literacy intern to participate as ...

$15 - $20/hr

Posted Job Title AI Literacy Library Intern Job Profile Title Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt Summary The University of Pennsylvania Libraries seeks an energetic AI Literacy intern to participate as ...

Summary The Law Library intern will deliver direct customer service to patrons in person, addressing a range of requests and inquiries from both attorneys and the general public. Responsibilities ...

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Library Intern information

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$8

$17

$24

How much do library intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for library intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Intern, you need a basic understanding of library organization, research skills, and enrollment in or completion of a library science or related program. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging software, and online databases is often required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a customer service mindset help interns engage effectively with patrons and staff. These skills ensure efficient day-to-day library operations, positive patron experiences, and a solid foundation for future library careers.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Library Intern expect during their internship?

Library Interns often assist with a variety of tasks, such as cataloging new materials, organizing library collections, and helping patrons with research or technology needs. You may also support event planning, community outreach, or digital archiving projects, depending on the library’s focus and size. Interns typically work closely with librarians and library assistants, offering a valuable opportunity to learn about library operations, customer service, and information management. These experiences help interns develop practical skills and can open doors to future roles within library science or related fields.

What are library interns?

Library interns are students or recent graduates who work in libraries to gain practical experience in library science and related fields. They assist with various tasks such as cataloging materials, organizing collections, helping patrons, and supporting library programs. Internships provide hands-on training and exposure to the daily operations of a library, which can be valuable for those considering a career in librarianship. The specific duties and learning opportunities can vary depending on the library's size and focus.

What is the difference between Library Intern vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary InternLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates; may require coursework in library scienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer prior experience
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, internships, or temporary positionsPublic, academic, or special libraries; more permanent roles
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, internships for trainingLibraries, government agencies, community centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level opportunities, training rolesJob responsibilities, career progression

The main difference between a Library Intern and a Library Assistant lies in their experience level and employment status. Interns are usually students gaining practical experience, often in a temporary or training capacity. Assistants are more established staff members with ongoing responsibilities. Both roles support library operations but differ in credentials, work environment, and career development opportunities.

More about Library Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Intern jobs? Cities with the most Library Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs? The most popular types of Library jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Library Intern jobs? The top employers for Library Intern jobs are:
What states have the most Library Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Intern jobs include:
Infographic showing various Library Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Internship, 1% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.
Reference Library Intern

Reference Library Intern

The University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of Pennsylvania rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 546 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Reference Library Intern

The University of Pennsylvania Libraries seeks an energetic reference intern to participate as a member of our academic engagement and departmental libraries teams, receive mentoring by a progressive and seasoned team of professional librarians, and jump start their careers as information professionals. The reference intern will have the opportunity to help shape reference for Penn Libraries while also further developing their skills by working on projects ranging from systematic reviews, outreach programming, exhibits, collections analysis, etc.

Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Support the Reference Services Task Force in conducting a holistic analysis of general reference services across the libraries.
  • Assist with analyzing 2 – 3 years of chat reference data to identify trends, patterns, and implications for staffing and service hours
  • Conduct spot reviews of chat transcripts and tickets to identify opportunities for improving service quality, consistency, and documentation
  • Assist in developing recommendations for one – time and ongoing training for reference providers
  • Participate in an environmental scan of peer institutions and review current literature on evolving reference services

Qualifications:

  • Current graduate student in an ALA-accredited library or information science program or another graduate studies program.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong service orientation and willingness to troubleshoot.
  • Desire to learn, adapt quickly, and work independently.
  • Desire to work in libraries and support a diverse academic community.
  • Flexibility regarding work location.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Ability to work onsite in the library spaces.

This is a 1 year term position.

Application Requirement:

A Cover Letter and Resume/CV are required to be considered for this position. Please upload your Cover Letter where it asks you to upload your Resume/CV; multiple documents are allowed.

Budgeted Pay Range:

$15.00 - $20.00 commensurate with education and experience.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

University Library

Pay Range

$7.25 - $20.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

  • Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family's health and welfare.
  • Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn's Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.


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About University of Pennsylvania

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The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Employers By State in 2021.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1740