The Conservation Lab seeks detail-oriented individuals with excellent hand skills who are interested in learning more about the conservation in a special collections Library and Archive.  Previous experience handling and caring for rare and unique materials is preferred.

Conservation Intern

Position Summary:

The Conservation Intern, based in the Library Division, works under the guidance of the Director of Preservation and Conservation Services, providing hands-on care to all HSP collections materials as assigned. Specific responsibilities include: surface cleaning and repairing of collection items, creating custom enclosures and housings. The Conservation Intern is expected to keep a daily documentation of his/her activity.

Position Requirements:

Excellent hand skills and attention to detail are required. Previous experience in bookbinding is preferred. Students currently enrolled in book arts, fine arts, or conservation programs are welcome to apply, as are those with previous experience preserving library materials. Must be able to lift 40 pounds.

Interested parties must submit a cover letter explaining how the internship will benefit the applicant, resume, and contact information for three references. Applications may be submitted as hard copy or as a pdf. If granted an interview, the applicant should be prepared to show actual work demonstrating hand skills at the interview. A background check is required of all employees, volunteers, and interns of HSP.

Term:  Spring and Fall internships consist of 14 weeks one day per week for a total of 98 hours.  The dates are set in conjunction with the semesters of local Philadelphia college and universities. The summer internship is six weeks, three seven-hour days per week for a total of 126 hours.

Deadlines: The deadlines reflect the received date.  Any applications received after these dates will automatically be included for the next due date.                                                                                             

Summer Internship:  March 15  

Fall Internship:  July 1

Spring Internship: October 1                           

Contact: 

Tara O'Brien
The Historical Society of Pennsylvania
1300 Locust Street
Philadelphia, PA  19107 
215-732-6200 x245