Job Listing: Museum Library Intern

Job Postings,

Name of Organization – Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum

21668 Heritage Farm Lane, Sterling, VA

Closes – N/A

Title – Museum Library Intern

Compensation – Internship (Unpaid) 

Type – Internship 

Internship Duration: Estimated 8 - 12 weeks

Apply – Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the position to jobs@lhfarmmuseum.org. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

Summary – The Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum is seeking a dedicated and meticulous intern to assist in the organization and cataloging of the museum’s 600+ book collection and other materials. This position involves editing and creating MARC records and entering data into the Proficio Re:Discovery database, ensuring the accessibility and proper documentation of the library’s resources. This internship provides valuable hands-on experience in library cataloging, museum database management, and preservation within a cultural heritage setting. 

Responsibilities

  • Cataloging & MARC Records: Create original and edit existing MARC records for books, periodicals, digital and archival materials in accordance with library cataloging standards.
  • Database Management: Enter and manage bibliographic and descriptive information in the Proficio Re:Discovery database. 
  • Organization: Sort, organize, and shelve materials to maintain an efficient and user-friendly library system.
  • Inventory Audit: Conduct periodic audits of the library collection to ensure records are accurate and up to date.
  • Preservation: Assist in the proper handling and preservation of rare or fragile materials. Identify preservation needs within the library collection.
  • Documentation: Maintain detailed and consistent records following established museum and library protocols. 

Qualifications

  • Knowledge of standard library cataloging tools, such as MARC21, RDA, DCRM, LCSH, and other standard vocabularies. 
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy, particularly in data entry.
  • Familiarity with integrated library systems. Familiarity with the OCLC Connexion client preferred but not required. Proficiency with database systems and knowledge of metadata standards; experience with Proficio Re:Discovery is highly preferred but not required. 
  • Interest in museum studies, library sciences, or archival work.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Coursework or experience in library sciences, museum studies, or a related field.
  • Experience with cataloging, metadata creation, or archival practices.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills. 

Benefits 

  • Gain hands-on experience with MARC records and museum database systems.
  • Develop skills in library cataloging and description of archival collections .
  • Opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Loudoun County’s agricultural history. 
  • Flexible hours to accommodate academic or personal commitments. Some work can be performed remotely.
  • Networking opportunities with museum and library professionals.
  • Potential for academic credit based on institutional requirements. 

About The Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum is a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to preserving, promoting and bringing to life the rich agricultural history of Loudoun County. 

https://heritagefarmmuseum.org/