Research Resources - Archives Internship null

About Whitney Museum

The Whitney Museum of American Art is a prominent institution founded by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney in 1930, renowned for its collection and exhibition of 20th and 21st-century American art. They curate, preserve, and showcase innovative artworks, serving as a vibrant hub for exploring the diversity and evolution of American artistic expression.

Your role

Internship program overview

The Whitney’s Academic Year Internship program offers a semester-long paid internship for undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in an accredited academic program. The internship is hybrid, with some onsite work. For Fall 2024, interns commit between 16–21 hours per week over 10–12 weeks for a total of 200 hours. Interns are assigned to a specific department at the Museum for the duration of the internship.

The Whitney seeks a Resource Resources Archives intern for the Fall 2024 semester.

Expected Projects & Assignments

• Assist with providing in-person and remote reference services.
• Assist with supervising the reading room and on-site researchers.
• Assist with reference inquiries from staff and external researchers.
• Page collections for researcher appointments.
• Digitize and prepare digital surrogates of select archival material.
• Edit collection metadata using ArchivesSpace.

Training & development

Provided Training

• DACS (Describing Archives: A Content Standard).
• Basics of editing online finding aids in ArchivesSpace.
• Reference skills specific to working with primary source researchers.
• Guidance in applying to jobs and other opportunities using field-specific language.

Outcomes

• First-hand experience with multiple areas of archives and library work.
• Greater familiarity with navigating organizational culture, policies, and procedures in an art library and museum setting.
• An understanding of how the Whitney’s archival collections support unique areas of inquiry.
• Experience using ArchivesSpace and DACS.
• Technical skills related to working with analogue archival materials and digital surrogates.

Salary & benefits

Interns will be paid a stipend of $3000.

If you join as a full-time employee, you will get the following benefits:

• Health insurance coverage
• Generous paid time off
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Free admission to many museums in New York City and nationally

Career progression

Interns at the Whitney have the opportunity to explore various departments and roles related to exhibitions, programs, administration, and visitor services, gaining valuable skills and knowledge. As they demonstrate their abilities and interests, interns are encouraged to apply for full- or part-time positions that align with their career aspirations and experiences within the museum.

Work-life balance

Whitney's Academic Year Internship program mandates a commitment of 16–21 hours per week over 10–12 weeks, totalling 200 hours, ensuring interns gain valuable experience while accommodating academic schedules and personal commitments. 

Culture & vibe

The Whitney fosters a culture of inclusivity and diversity, valuing the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals. With a commitment to equity and belonging, they cultivate an environment where every voice is heard, celebrated, and empowered to shape their collective mission of showcasing American art in its fullest and most representative context.

About you

Skills & Qualifications

• Coursework in library and information science, archives, public history, or another related field.
• Interest in modern and contemporary American art and museum work.
• Familiarity with the function and purpose of archival finding aids.
• Knowledge of ArchivesSpace, DACs, MS Office, spreadsheets, and/or Adobe Photoshop is a plus.
• The ability to work independently with sharp attention to detail.
• Undergraduates and graduates currently enrolled in accredited academic year programs are eligible.
• Applicants must have completed a minimum of one year’s worth of academic coursework; undergraduate freshmen are not eligible.
• While a demonstrated interest in art and art history is preferred, students in all majors are encouraged to apply.
• Previous museum experience is not required.

Source

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• whitney.org/about
• whitney.org/about/job-postings
• youtube.com/user/WhitneyFocus