Collections Intern
Background
The Rosenbach creates programs and exhibitions inspired by a collection of nearly 400,000 rare books, manuscripts, and fine and decorative arts objects, including some of the best-known literary and historical objects in the world.
At the Rosenbach we foster inquiry, learning, and creative thought by engaging audiences in programs, exhibitions, and research inspired by our collections. In December 2013, the Rosenbach became affiliated with the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, bringing together two of the world’s preeminent collections of rare books, manuscripts, Americana and art. The combined holdings of the Rosenbach and the Free Library of Philadelphia inspire unique exhibitions and programs throughout the year.
Collections Intern Overview
As part of the America 250 celebrations in 2026, the Rosenbach will be launching a series of programs and a special exhibition which will spotlight its American history collections. In addition to using some of the collection’s “greatest hits” in these programs, we would also like to highlight materials which will bring lesser known individuals from history to life for our audiences. The development of these programs will require a period of intense research into our vast American collections.
Responsibilities
The Collections intern will have the opportunity to:
- Assist with research of the Rosenbach’s American collections and create a collections guide to catalog our holdings. This guide will be used by staff as they build America 250 programs as well as being made publicly available.
- Develop an outline for a public program, such as a tour, workshop, course or podcast, that tells a story about a selection of objects the intern researched.
- Work alongside the Rosenbach’s curators and librarians, assisting with collections stewardship activities and participating in weekly department meetings.
Requirements, Skills, and Qualifications
The Collections intern should:
- Be a creative thinker
- Possess an interest in Museum Studies, Library Science, digitization, English or history
- Have an interest in making museum collections accessible to a wide range of audiences
- Possess research skills and the ability to work independently after initial instruction.
Compensation
$20.00 per hour
INTERNS WILL WORK 28 HOURS PER WEEK AND ATTEND A MANDATORY OFFSITE PROGRAM DAY ONE DAY PER WEEK WITH THEIR COHORT.
Internship Period: June 11 – August 13
Total Weeks: 9 weeks
Work Hours per Week: 28
Total Hours: 252
Workdays: 4 days per week (Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays) onsite; 9AM–5PM
PROGRAM DAY:
On Wednesdays, interns will attend an offsite program day with their cohort.
These hours are separate from the internship hours.
How to Apply:
This internship is through the Studio Institute Arts Intern program.
You must first apply to Arts Intern to be eligible for this internship. Once your application has been approved, we will provide you with the next steps to apply for the Collections Intern position at The Rosenbach.
Eligibility Criteria:
Please watch our information video below to ensure you are eligible to apply for Arts Intern.
Student Info Session- Arts Intern Summer 2025
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Arts Intern Summer 2025 - Philadelphia
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