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Library Science Internship Jobs in State College, PA

Library Science Internship information

See State College, PA salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do library science internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library science internship in State College, PA is $15.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Library Science Internship vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary Science InternshipLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in Library Science or related fieldPost-secondary education or certification in library technology
Work EnvironmentAcademic, public, or special libraries; often temporary or part-timePublic, academic, or special libraries; full-time or part-time roles
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs for students or recent grads to gain experienceFull-time or part-time staff supporting library operations
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level or training roles in librariesUnderstanding career pathways or job requirements in libraries

In summary, a Library Science Internship is a temporary, educational position aimed at students or recent graduates to gain practical experience. A Library Technician is a more permanent role requiring specific certifications or education, supporting daily library functions. Both roles are integral to library operations but differ mainly in experience level and employment status.

What is a library science internship?

A Library Science Internship is a temporary, supervised work experience in a library or related information setting, designed for students or recent graduates studying library and information science. Interns gain practical skills in areas such as cataloging, reference services, archival work, and digital resource management. These internships help bridge the gap between academic studies and professional practice, providing valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Many library science programs require or strongly encourage internships as part of their curriculum.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library science intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Science Intern, you need foundational knowledge in library systems, information organization, and research methods, typically gained through coursework in library science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging tools, and digital resource management platforms is often required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and a customer-service mindset are essential soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure effective support for library operations, quality service for patrons, and efficient management of library resources.

What types of projects or responsibilities can interns expect during a library science internship?

Library Science interns typically engage in a variety of hands-on projects that provide insight into both public-facing and behind-the-scenes aspects of library operations. Common responsibilities include assisting with cataloging and organizing library materials, supporting reference and research services, helping to plan and implement community programs, and working with digital resources and databases. Interns often collaborate with librarians, IT staff, and patrons, offering opportunities to develop professional skills and gain exposure to different library specializations. These diverse tasks help interns build a broad foundation for potential future roles in the library field.
What are popular job titles related to Library Science Internship jobs in State College, PA? For Library Science Internship jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Library Science Internship jobs? Cities near State College, PA with the most Library Science Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Science Internship job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,621 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Food Science Advocates

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Food Science Department is seeking undergraduate students to serve as "Food Science Advocates" in support of departmental outreach, recruitment, and student engagement initiatives.
Students who are energetic, professional, and passionate about their experiences within the Food Science program and the broader field of Food Science are strongly encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities include:
Assisting with prospective student outreach by meeting with students and their families, both in-person and virtually, to lead tours of the Food Science Department facilities and share personal experiences related to academics, student involvement, undergraduate research, internships, product development, sensory evaluation, Food Science Club activities, and other opportunities within the program. Virtual engagement through platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom may also be required. While most tours will take place within the Food Science Building, some may extend throughout Ag Hill and University Park. A general familiarity with key campus locations such as the Library, HUB-Robeson Center, Lion Shrine, Beaver Stadium, and Campus Recreation facilities is preferred.
Representing the Food Science Department at departmental and college recruitment events, including Bite of Food Science webinars, A Taste of Food Science events, Penn State Day, Plant Yourself in Ag Day, Admitted Students Events (ASE), Interest Days, Spend A Summer Day (SASD), New Student Orientation (NSO), Commonwealth Campus programs, and related outreach initiatives.
Supporting the department's social media and digital recruitment efforts through platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and related channels. Students should have an interest in content creation, photography, videography, storytelling, interviewing, and highlighting experiences within the department for recruitment and promotional purposes.
Assisting with additional recruitment, outreach, and student engagement initiatives as needed. This position may occasionally require travel to off-site locations or events. Students selected for the role must maintain a professional and positive representation of the Food Science Department and the University.
*Academic success, personal well-being, and health will always remain the priority for students serving in this role, and flexibility will be provided whenever possible to support those needs. At the same time, recruitment and outreach remain strategic priorities within the Food Science Department, and students selected for this position are expected to communicate professionally and make their best effort to honor scheduled commitments, events, and responsibilities associated with the role.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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