Student/Intern Junior Fellows Program

  • Hosting Service Unit: All Library of Congress
  • Program Contact: juniorfellows@loc.gov
  • Interests/Areas of Study: American Studies; Archival Management; Archival Studies; Art History; Astrology; Baltic History, Language or Literature; Business; Cartography; Communications; Computer Science; Conservation; Creative Writing; Data Science; Digital Humanities; Digital Media; East Asian Studies; Economics; Educations; Engineering- Astronautics; English; Estonian History, Language or Literature; European History; French; French Language; Geography; Geographic Imagining Systems; Graphic Design; History; Humanities; Imaging Science; Information Science; Information Systems; Library Science; Museum Studies; Music; Music History; Political Science; Preservation – Library and Archives; Psychology; Public Policy; Public Relations; Slavic History, Language or Literature; Social Science; Statistics; User Experience Design and Research; Visual Arts; Yiddish
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen
  • Application Period: Annually
  • Application Notes: The open application period for JFP26 is closed. Applications for the 2027 Junior Fellows Program are projected to open in late October 2026.
  • Compensation: : These internships are full-time, temporary staff positions at the GS-03/step 1 level. Onsite: $17.78 per hour for 10 weeks, 40 hours per week. Remote: $17.00 - $18.79 per hour for 10 weeks, 40 hours per week. Rates are subject to variations based on federal cost of living adjustments and differences in locality pay area rates for the current year.
  • Academic Credit: The Library does not provide academic credit, but you may arrange with your school in advance to receive credit.
  • Available Benefits: Onsite interns are eligible for transit benefits.
  • Program Duration: Short-term. Short-term. Full Time. 10-week summer internship appointment. Program dates: May 18, 2026 to July 24, 2026.
  • Qualifications: Must be currently enrolled at time of application at the undergraduate or graduate level, AND/OR have graduated or will graduate between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025.

Program Overview

The Library of Congress Junior Fellows Program (JFP) is a paid, 10-week annual summer internship program that enables undergraduate, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain career experience by working with analog and digital collections and supporting the services of the world's largest library.

Working with curators and specialists in various divisions, Junior Fellows explore collections, resources, and initiatives and produce products that position the Library of Congress as a dynamic center for fostering innovation, sparking creativity, and building lifelong connections.

With guidance from mentors, Junior Fellows are exposed to a broad spectrum of library work, including: reference, archives, public programming, copyright, preservation, and information technology.

JFP projects increase useability Library of Congress collections and promote awareness of the Library's resources to Congress and people across America.

In the past, Junior Fellows have identified and interpreted hundreds of historical, literary, artistic, cinematic and musical gems representing the Library’s rich creative and intellectual assets.

No previous experience is necessary, but internships are competitive and special skills or knowledge are usually desired. Selections are based on narrative responses to vacancy announcement questions, reference calls, and an interview with a selection official.

The Junior Fellows Program, a signature initiative of the Library of Congress since 1991, is made possible by gifts from the late James Madison Council member Nancy Glanville Jewell through the Glanville Family Foundation, the Knowledge Navigators Trust Fund, the Library Internship and Fellowship Trust Fund, and the Mellon Foundation.

Program Focus

The focus of the program is to increase useability of Library collections and to promote awareness and appreciation of the Library's services to Congressional members, scholars, students, teachers, and the general public. Junior Fellows encourage the use of collections and services − ensuring that the Library of Congress is known as a living, dynamic center for scholarly work and meaningful connections.

Program participants inventory, catalog, arrange, preserve, and research collections in varied formats, as well as assist in digital and analog library initiatives. Upon completion of their assignments, Junior Fellows work closely with Library curators and specialists to plan and present a display of their most significant discoveries and accomplishments.

Watch the Junior Fellows Program 2025 Highlight Video to learn more:

Library of Congress Junior Fellows Display Day Overview

Selection Process

Applications will be forwarded to selecting officials in the Library who will arrange telephone, Zoom or MS Teams interviews with promising applicants. Letters of recommendation are not required for this application. After completion of the selection process, those selected will be provided with detailed information on reporting for their internship.

A complete application package consists of: 1) resume; 2): legible copy of latest college/university transcripts, and 3): responses to vacancy questions. Note: All items must be submitted through USAJOBS during the open application period. The open application period for JFP26 is closed. Applications for the 2027 Junior Fellows Program are projected to open in late October 2027. Incomplete application packages will not be considered.

Prepare to apply for JFP26 by reading this How to Apply guide

Selections for all 2026 Junior Fellows are projected to be complete by late March 2026. Notices of selection or non-selection will be sent during the first week of April 2026. If you have questions regarding the USAJOBS vacancy announcement or the status of your application, please contact jobhelp@loc.gov.

Onsite Projects for JFP 2026

Onsite projects for JFP 2027 will be updated in late October 2026. Projects vary from year to year.

Interns will complete the following 24 onsite projects during JFP 2026. All work for these projects will be completed entirely onsite within the Library’s Capitol Hill campus with the exception of projects 4 and 5. All work for projects 4 and 5 will be completed onsite in the Library’s National Audio-Visual Conservation Center in Culpeper, Virginia.

Each intern will be assigned to work on one project as their primary responsibility, alongside other assignments that will introduce them to the range of Library activity. Applicants will be asked to select their top three project choices in the application.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Once selected and hired for the internship, every effort will be made to accommodate project selections. Due to the popularity of some areas of interest, preferred project placement cannot be guaranteed. All project areas may not be available at the time applicants are selected and others may be added. Applicants should be sure to indicate three project areas of interest within their applications.

Onsite Project Descriptions

  • # 01 Economic Research on Copyright and Creative Industries (Onsite) - Copyright Office

    Project Description: The Junior Fellow will conduct a review of the academic and policy literature on the economics of Intellectual Property (IP) protection in creative industries and inform the Copyright Office of research on this matter. They will prepare a report summarizing the state of the literature as well as summarize and analyze copyright registrations data and deposits for these organizations and industries. They will work closely with economists and statisticians in the Copyright Office to further the economic research agenda of the Office on this and other topics by contributing towards impartial expertise for Office leadership. As appropriate, they will also communicate insights from this study and other Office research in shorter form for the public, such as blog posts, data visualizations, and other insights.

    Knowledge and skills required: Experience reading, understanding, and synthesizing sophisticated academic research articles in the field of economics.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: BA in economics or related field; currently enrolled in or recently completed a graduate program in economics or public policy; working knowledge of copyright, experience collecting, cleaning, analyzing, and reporting data.

  • # 02 Enhancing Access to Posters (Onsite) - Prints and Photographs Division

    Project Description: The Prints & Photographs Division has a world-class collection of artist-designed posters with more than 85,000 items by more than 2,000 creators from the United States and other countries. The Junior Fellow will make new catalog records based on information in a local card file and other sources in order to make the posters discoverable and useable in the Library’s online catalog. This will increase awareness of this treasure, only 7% of which is currently searchable online. In the course of this work, the Junior Fellow will participate in collection inventory, collections research, data reconciliation, and see the process of digitizing large objects. Additionally, the Junior Fellow will learn about the history of posters and the techniques for creating them, and gain experience in handling rare, often unique objects.

    Knowledge and skills required: Interest in graphic design history; strong organizational skills and careful attention to detail; basic proficiency in Excel; enjoyment in solving problems.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of printing processes and techniques; experience using library search tools; experience working with artworks or delicate objects.

  • # 03 Descriptive Cataloging for the Ilmar Mikiver Estonian Collection Materials (Onsite) - Acquisitions & Bibliographic Access Directorate

    Project Description: This project provides an opportunity to gain experience with descriptive level cataloging while working with a unique collection in the Estonian language. The Junior Fellow will create and update records for the Ilmar Mikiver Estonian Collection, which is not currently bibliographically accessible. The collection includes works created by and for Ilmar Mikiver, a journalist and poet. Through working with and researching this collection, the Junior Fellow will learn from Library experts about descriptive level cataloging, subject analysis, and a variety of cataloging rules and tools while improving the discoverability of an important Library collection. In addition to gaining valuable, hands-on cataloging experience in a lesser-known language, the Junior Fellow will help to provide access to materials that are not available elsewhere in the United States. At the conclusion of their internship, the Junior Fellow will create a presentation for internal and external audiences showcasing their accomplishments.

    Knowledge and skills required: Familiarity with Baltic Studies or the academic study of Estonia; reading knowledge of Estonian.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Experience in cataloging of any type of library materials, experience with the Estonian language.

  • # 04 Office of War Information Collection Lacquer Processing (Onsite – Culpeper, Virginia) - National Audio-Visual Conservation Center

    Project Description: This collection-oriented project will focus on processing tasks for Recorded Sound collections, including the Office of War Information (OWI) collection, which contains lacquer discs from mid-1940s OWI broadcasts. The materials will provide important historical documentation for researchers and will be useful for those focusing on public diplomacy. The Junior Fellow will create inventories, identify materials to prioritize for digitization and online access, perform conservation treatments, and describe items in our collections management system. The Junior Fellow will gain experience in sound recording format identification and handling and will have the opportunity to learn about sound recording copyright and preservation from National Audio-Visual Conservation Center colleagues. Note: All work for this project will be completed onsite in the Library’s National Audio-Visual Conservation Center in Culpeper, Virgina.

    Knowledge and skills required: Interest in sound recordings; basic computer skills, including familiarity with Excel.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge or interest in World War II era history and/or the history of radio; experience in processing and/or describing audio materials; archival experience, familiarity with languages of Southeast Asia.

  • # 05 Universal Music Group Collection Lacquer Processing (Onsite – Culpeper, Virginia) - National Audio-Visual Conservation Center

    Project Description: This collections-oriented project will focus on pre-processing and processing tasks in Recorded Sound, including experience with the Universal Music Group collection, which contains historic master recordings - many of which are unreleased - by performers like Billie Holiday, Les Paul, Louis Armstrong, the Ink Spots, and Bing Crosby, among others. The Junior Fellow will create inventories, engage in research, perform conservation treatments, and describe items in our collections management system. The Junior Fellow will gain experience in sound recording format identification and handling and will have the opportunity to learn about sound recording copyright and preservation from National Audio-Visual Conservation Center colleagues. The Junior Fellow will gain experience and understanding of project management at a large archive and will help determine project efficiencies. The project will reduce sound recording arrearage and allow more people to learn about the music and spoken word performance in one of Recorded Sound’s premiere collections. Note: All work for this project will be completed onsite in the Library’s National Audio-Visual Conservation Center in Culpeper, Virgina.

    Knowledge and skills required: Interest in sound recordings, knowledge of music; basic computer skills, including familiarity with Excel.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of recording industry history; experience in processing and/or describing audio materials; archival experience.

  • # 06 A Nation Changed: Preserving the 9/11 Newspaper Collection (Onsite) - Serial and Government Publications Division

    Project Description: The Library of Congress Serial & Government Publications Division holds one of the largest newspaper collections in the world. The Division preserves original print issues of historic significance, such as newspaper issues from across the United States following the attacks on September 11, 2001. These newspaper issues were collected with the intention of creating a special sub-collection: the “9/11 Newspaper Collection.” This sub-collection is significant for its collective depiction of 21st century U.S. history and the ensuing ripple effects around the world. In this collections-oriented project, under the mentorship of reference librarians with a specialty in newspapers, the Junior Fellow will assist with completing the inventory for the collection, housing the newspaper issues according to Library of Congress preservation practices, and updating a research guide that will enhance the discoverability of this unique sub-collection for researchers in the Newspaper and Current Periodical Reading Room.

    Knowledge and skills required: Ability to find and verify information using internet search engines, databases, and library catalogs; interest in working with print newspapers and American history; proficiency in the English language; strong organizational and communication skills; ability to set and meet deadlines, follow work plans, and adapt after input; proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Familiarity with 20th- and 21st-century American history; experience working with archives and/or special collections materials; experience specifically working with newspapers or other serial publications more generally.

  • # 07 Sharing the Work of the Conservation Division (Onsite) - General Collections Conservation Section

    Project Description: The Library of Congress Conservation Division cares for the treasures of the Library and has existed since the 1970s. The Junior Fellow, building on previous years’ efforts, will go through the Division’s paper records, identify the item treated, and update its catalog record. In addition, they will use the Division’s Binding Features card catalog of Library collection items with unusual binding features to update the records of these materials. This work allows other institutions and patrons to understand our collections and the work we have performed; it also provides better discoverability of our collections by allowing patrons to predict the condition of items they may be interested in using at the Library. This project provides an invaluable opportunity for the Junior Fellow to gain a deep understanding of the conservation field over time while allowing them to learn about the various conservation treatments used at the Library.

    Knowledge and skills required: Basic proficiency in Excel; ability to devise searches for databases and library catalogs to find and verify information; strong organizational skills; ability to set and meet deadlines, follow work plans, and adapt after input; intellectual curiosity about the library cataloging field and conservation fields.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Experience using library cataloging tools; experience with MARC records; experience with controlled vocabularies.

  • # 08 Illuminating Provenance: Capture and Catalogue of Historic Watermarks (Onsite) - Preservation Research & Testing Division

Project Description: Watermarks—designs impressed into paper during manufacture—are vital markers of origin that reveal when and where paper was made. They provide key evidence for establishing provenance, tracing trade and technology networks, and deepening our understanding of written culture. The Preservation Research and Testing Division (PRTD) has imaged numerous watermarks across Library of Congress collections, creating a rich body of documentation now requiring systematic cataloging. The Junior Fellow will record metadata such as dates, origins, papermill associations, and motif terminology congruent with classifications in the field of watermark scholarship, while analyzing patterns that may link materials across curatorial divisions. They will also contribute to interpretive analysis by situating watermarks within historical, artistic, and technological contexts. In addition, the Junior Fellow will receive hands-on training in spectral imaging, gaining experience with advanced, non-invasive preservation tools. This project will expand the discoverability, interpretive value, and scholarly potential of watermark data.

Knowledge and skills required: Ability to search databases and library catalogs to find and verify information; strong organizational skills; strong written communication for interpretive analysis; ability to work independently; interest in Library and/or Preservation Science.

Knowledge and skills preferred: Familiarity with controlled vocabularies; experience or coursework in art history or book history, printing, or production; critical thinking and ability to identify patterns and relationships.

  • # 09 Collections Preservation: Tangible Media and Digital Forensics (Onsite) - Collections Digitization Division

    Project Description: The Library of Congress Collections Digitization Division provides digitization of Library collections via contract and in-house methods. We also perform the capture and preservation of born-digital collections on removable media (CDs, hard-drives, zip disks, etc.) using Rip-Stations and forensic equipment. The Junior Fellow will go through the available collections, assess physical and software formats, and process them using the appropriate software and equipment. The Junior Fellow will also work with Collections Digitization staff to bolster workflow documentation, and research and suggest additional equipment or software to improve existing workflows. This project preserves born-digital materials, allows users to understand our collections and preservation work, and enhances discoverability by allowing patrons to predict the condition of available Library items. This project offers an invaluable opportunity for the Junior Fellow to gain a deep understanding of the digitization field over time while allowing them to learn about the various preservation treatments used at the Library.

    Knowledge and skills required: Basic proficiency in Word, Excel and Access; ability to devise searches for databases and library catalogs to find and verify information; strong organizational skills; ability to set and meet deadlines, follow work plans, and adapt after input; intellectual curiosity about the library digitization and preservation fields.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Experience using MARC records and Microsoft office automation tools skills.

  • # 10 Visions of Modernity: Documenting 20th Century Chinese Magazines and Journals (Onsite) - Asian Division

    Project Description: Magazines and journals were an important site for the creation and contestation of 20th - century Chinese modernity, whether in metropolitan, borderland, or diasporic communities. The Library of Congress Asian Division holds over 8,000 such titles, many uncatalogued. This project will build a foundation for an accurate and searchable online index of non-newspaper periodical serial holdings. Through examination of print issues, the Junior Fellow will tabulate basic bibliographic and holdings information on each title. Alongside additional post-project work, this will form the basis for a finding aid to be uploaded to a LibGuide, enhancing discoverability of an important collection. The list will also serve as a guide for future cataloguing. The Junior Fellow will acquire skills in processing library materials, project and data management, and conducting humanities, social science, bibliographic, or data science research while learning from the vibrant legacy of the modern transformation of China and its diasporas.

    Knowledge and skills required: Good reading and keyboard input skills in modern Chinese, in both traditional and simplified scripts; ability to accurately transcribe Chinese characters using pinyin Romanization; good project management skills; basic proficiency in Excel; proficiency in searching library catalogs.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of the Wade-Giles Romanization system; proficiency in searching Chinese resource databases; knowledge of 20th century Chinese history; data management skills.

  • # 11 Enhancing Accessibility to an Ephemeral South Asia (Onsite) - Asian Division

    Project Description: In this collections-based project, the Junior Fellow will enhance the discoverability of the South Asian Pamphlet and United States Information Agency (USIA) Pamphlet Collections in the Asian Division. Both contain materials in multiple South Asian languages spoken by millions of South Asian Americans. The first collection is organized by 150 themed subcollection records, dating from 1904 to 1993, each containing between one and 50 items. Examples include nationalist literature, the Kashmir question, and politics and government. The second comprises South Asian USIA Cold War-era pamphlets. The Junior Fellow will inventory each item, update pre-existing LibGuides and conduct their own research based on collection materials. They will also learn how a large research library manages its collections and about the workflows that precede and enable use and discoverability.

    Knowledge and skills required: Reading and writing knowledge of at least one of the following South Asian languages, with strong preference for two or more: Hindi, Urdu, and/or Bengali.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Transliteration experience according to the Library of Congress romanization tables.

  • # 12 Governing by Edict: Recording Legal Enactments of Pre-Revolutionary France (Onsite) - Law Library

    Project Description: The Law Library holds more than 4,000 uncatalogued public enactments of the French State. These include Decisions of the Royal Council, Declarations of the King and Edicts of the King from 1660-1789. They touch upon trade and taxation in the age of colonization in America and elsewhere. The purpose of this project is to improve discoverability and usage through increased metadata, and to promote research on acts of state that impacted France and its colonies, including territories that became the United States. The Junior Fellow will perform bibliographic research on documents in this series to identify and record: title, publication information, pagination, dimensions, collation, ornamentation, and details of design, as well as to record copies of these texts found in other institutions. This work lays a foundation for future full cataloging of the collection.

    Knowledge and skills required: Knowledge of French at a high level of fluency; demonstrable knowledge of French colonial history, French history, legal history economic history or a related field; ability to perform bibliographic research in the Library of Congress Catalog, including the ability to identify bibliographic records for titles in the collection.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Ability to use Microsoft Excel; experience in compiling reports including precise statistics and factual data of a high degree of specificity.

  • # 13 Organizing the Austro-Hungarian Empire: Creation of a Spatial Search Application (Onsite) - Geography and Map Division

    Project Description: The Geography & Map Division recently digitized “Spezialkarte der Osterreichisch-Ungarischen Monarchie,” a 6,346-sheet topographic survey of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at 1:75,000 scale, now available online. Sheets span from 1870-1940 and were produced by both the Austro-Hungarian monarchy and successor agencies. This map set is extremely popular with Library patrons, especially genealogists, but its size makes it difficult to navigate. The Junior Fellow will organize the digital sheets by sheet number and year to support the creation of a web mapping application that will provide enhanced user experience and detailed spatial access to this large set. Alongside Geography & Map Division staff, they will be involved in the creation of the web mapping application, which will be published in the Geography & Map Division’s Geospatial Applications collection. This project provides an opportunity for the Junior Fellow to understand how spatial search increases access and discoverability of digital collections.

    Knowledge and skills required: Interest in geography or cartography; strong organizational skills and attention to detail; proficiency with computer programs such as Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Teams.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Exposure or basic experience with geographic information systems and/or ArcGIS Online.

  • # 14 Inventorying Photographs of Political Development Moments in Sub-Saharan Africa (Onsite) - African and Middle East Division

    Project Description: The Library of Congress African Section is the focal point of the Library's collection development activities for Sub-Saharan Africa. The section has unprocessed photographs with rich histories of political development activities in several countries, including press photographs covering events such as the independence of Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde in the 1970s. The collection totals about 2000 photographs spanning 1890s -1970s; albums document personal exploration, reveal accounts of colonial administration and daily life, and bring to light unique themes and significant moments in history. The Junior Fellow will organize and create a comprehensive database of the photographs and conduct research into locations, individuals and events in the photographs to enrich item and collection information. The Junior Fellow will also create a StoryMap or a research guide. This project will provide an opportunity to gain a deep understanding of the process of making collections available to users while learning about the histories of geographical regions.

    Knowledge and skills required: Strong organizational skills; ability to set and meet deadlines, follow work plans, and adapt after input; ability to devise searches for databases and library catalogs to find and verify information; proficiency in Excel; basic reading level of French; basic reading level of Portuguese; intellectual curiosity about Africa.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: African history; Intellectual curiosity about African studies, library and information science.

  • # 15 Mary Wolfskill Internship, Manuscript Reading Room (Onsite) - Manuscript Division

    Project Description: Overseeing a collection of approximately 78.5 million primary source materials relating to American history, the Manuscript Reading Room is a service-oriented focal point for members of Congress and their staff, the academic community, journalists, genealogists, and the general public conducting research. The division’s Mary Wolfskill Trust Fund Internship, established in honor of a former longtime head of the Reference and Reader Services Section, introduces the Junior Fellow to the principles, concepts, and techniques of archival management and reference. The Junior Fellow will assist researchers in accessing the division's collections by responding to reference inquiries received in person and remotely, analyzing reference requests, investigating sources of information, and providing timely responses. The Junior Fellow may also work on special projects that improve researcher access to the materials that highlight the histories and narratives represented in the Manuscript Division holdings.

    Knowledge and skills required: Demonstrated knowledge or interest of American history and related fields; ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines; ability to communicate effectively in writing; ability to think critically and propose resolutions to problems, and ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team setting.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Experience working in a research library environment; knowledge of integrated library systems, basic library applications, and other information technologies.

  • # 16 Hidden Voices: The Hebraic Pamphlets and Booklets Collection (Onsite) - Hebraic Section

    Project Description: Over the past several decades, the Hebraic Section has gathered a substantial collection of pamphlets and small printed booklets in Hebrew from around the world. Covering subjects such as Jewish religious life, communal activities, the Jewish calendar, American Jewry, Zionism and Israel, education, secular holidays and libraries, this collection provides a valuable but underutilized resource for scholars and the public alike. Currently, the materials are housed in approximately 200 archival boxes organized by broad subject categories. However, they have never been cataloged and no inventory exists, leaving the collection largely undiscoverable. The Junior Fellow will survey the collection, compile a detailed inventory, and create a comprehensive finding aid with subject descriptions, dates, and relevant metadata. This project will significantly improve the discoverability of the collection online and lay the groundwork for future cataloging and digitization, enabling broader usage for research in Jewish studies, history and related fields.

    Knowledge and skills required: Knowledge of Hebrew; strong organizational and problem-solving skills; ability to set and meet deadlines, follow work plans, and adapt after input; basic proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; ability to devise searches for internet search engines, databases, and library catalogs to find and verify information; intellectual curiosity about Jewish history; interest in learning about Jewish history in the 20th and 21st centuries.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Basic reading level of Yiddish.

  • # 17 Elizabeth Brown Pryor Internship, Manuscript Division Reading Room (Onsite) - Manuscript Division

    Project Description: Overseeing a collection of approximately 78.5 million primary source materials relating to American history, the Manuscript Reading Room is a service-oriented focal point for members of Congress and their staff, the academic community, journalists, genealogists, and the general public conducting research in American history. The division’s Elizabeth Brown Pryor Internship, supported through a generous bequest of a longtime Library researcher, introduces the Junior Fellow to the principles, concepts, and techniques of archival management and reference. The Junior Fellow will assist researchers in accessing the division's collections by responding to reference inquiries received in person and remotely, analyzing reference requests, investigating sources of information, and providing timely responses. The Junior Fellow may also work on special projects that improve researcher access to the materials that highlight the histories and narratives represented in the Manuscript Division holdings.

    Knowledge and skills required: Knowledge or interest of American history; ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines; ability to communicate effectively in writing; ability to think critically and propose resolutions to problems; ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team setting

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Experience working in a research library environment. Preferred knowledge of integrated library systems, basic library applications, and other information technologies.

  • # 18 Reconstituting Gao Hongcai’s Collection of Chinese Shandong Gazetteers (Onsite) - Asian and Middle Eastern Division

    Project Description: This project provides the opportunity to gain experience with descriptive cataloging and provenance research while working with a unique Chinese-language collection. The Library holds one of the foremost collections of old Chinese gazetteers, the most extensive collection of these sources outside of China. This includes a rare complete set of pre-20th century Shandong gazetteers, collected by renowned bibliophile Gao Hongcai (1852-1918). With mentorship, the Junior Fellow will learn by working firsthand with these materials, enriching their minimal catalog records and reconstituting Gao Hongcai’s collection. They will also document the physical state of the materials through a conservation report and help to develop Library best practices for linked data cataloging for older Chinese books. In addition to gaining experience with Chinese-language cataloging, linked data, and provenance research, the Junior Fellow will gain insights into historic Chinese book formats and conservation techniques and share their experience in a blog post.

    Knowledge and skills required: Familiarity with China’s history and geography, especially of Shandong; intellectual curiosity in Chinese gazetteers and book history; reading knowledge of Chinese and Classical Chinese, with proficiency in both Traditional and Simplified Chinese scripts; ability to devise searches in internet search engines, databases, and library catalogs to find and verify information.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Familiarity with Chinese book history and formats; experience using an Integrated Library System (ILS) or with cataloging; reading knowledge of Japanese, Korean and/or other languages/scripts from the region.

  • # 19 Exploring, Evaluating, and Enhancing Discoverability of Microfilm Resources (Onsite) - History & Genealogy Section

    Project Description: This project will identify Library of Congress microprint holdings containing materials representing the history of American communities that would be suitable for item level cataloging within the general collections. This will include evaluating an extensive collection of printed guides and catalog records, examining the types of materials included, confirming the holdings in the stacks, and browsing the microfilm to confirm the nature of the contents. Working with specific microfilm collections, the Junior Fellow will surface information about the individual (and perhaps the issues available)—the first step in making these resources discoverable for Library users. At the conclusion of this project, the Junior Fellow will develop a report of their findings and recommendations, including prioritization of microprint collections to be inventoried more completely.

    Knowledge and skills required: Familiarity with Excel; interest in libraries, archives, and research; basic search skills using library catalogs; writing skills; facility with Office 365 or similar productivity tools.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Familiarity with microfilm; interest in serial publications; intermediate search skills using library catalogs; superior writing skills.

  • # 20 Providing Access to American History (Onsite) - Manuscript Division

    Project Description: Through hands-on learning under the guidance of an experienced archives specialist, this onsite project provides the Junior Fellow with the opportunity to apply archival standards and principles while processing and making available for research use all or a significant portion of a collection forming part of the Manuscript Division’s archival backlog. Manuscript Division collections typically comprise material types such as correspondence, photographs, born-digital media, and other ephemeral materials, documenting an array of historical events and people throughout United States history. In addition to physical processing, the Junior Fellow will work with division staff on tasks like cataloging, finding aid preparation, born-digital processing, and preservation assessments. The Junior Fellow’s work will enable the Manuscript Division to expedite the collection’s arrangement and description, making it fully available to researchers in the Manuscript Reading Room by the end of summer 2026.

    Knowledge and skills required: Knowledge of American history; knowledge of a variety of automated tools and technologies such as integrated library systems; knowledge of office applications such as word processing and spreadsheets; ability to organize, describe, and preserve archival materials; ability to plan work and meet deadlines; ability to think critically and propose resolutions to problems; ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team setting; ability to communicate in writing.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of born digital standards and preservation practices; knowledge of Encoded Archival Description (EAD) finding aid standards and practices.

  • # 21 Yiddish Bibliographic Records Metadata Enhancement Project (Onsite) – Asian and Middle Eastern Division

    Project Description: This project provides an opportunity for a Junior Fellow to work with an extraordinarily rich collection and gain experience with cataloging standards and metadata enhancement in the Yiddish language. The Library has more than 2,000 bibliographic records for uncatalogued Yiddish-language books. While the records provide basic access, work is needed to improve the metadata for these materials and to learn more about the collection and its relative rarity. The Junior Fellow would evaluate each item and use their findings to enhance these minimal records. Some of this can be addressed through leveraging any existing records for other copies. If the Library is found to be the only holder, the Junior Fellow would work to provide access points and descriptive information. In addition to providing a supportive learning opportunity for the Junior Fellow, this work will result in increased discoverability for the Library's highly significant Yiddish holdings.

    Knowledge and skills required: Ability to read and understand the Yiddish language (intermediate or above); detail-oriented.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of Jewish and/or European and American history and literature; experience with library catalog records.

  • # 22 Finding our Place in the Cosmos with the Carl Sagan Book Collection (Onsite) - Science Section

    Project Description: In 2012, the Library of Congress acquired the personal papers of American astronomer Carl Sagan, funded by Seth MacFarlane, creator of popular television sitcoms and movies. The Seth MacFarlane Collection of the Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan Archive, 1860-2004 also included a large collection of books and technical reports that Sagan amassed throughout his life. In this project, the Junior Fellow will work with Library specialists to inventory the “Sagan’s Library” collection and develop recommendations for a collection management strategy and process plan. This project will provide an invaluable opportunity for the Junior Fellow to assess, arrange, describe, and preserve an unprocessed collection. Their work will also increase discovery and connect Library users to this eclectic Library collection from one of the most recognized science popularizers of the 20th century.

    Knowledge and skills required: Academic study of and/or interest in science, history of science, library science, archival, and/or conservation fields; familiarity working with spreadsheets; strong organizational skills; experience conducting science research using a variety of catalogs, databases and web discovery tools; experience with compiling bibliographies, inventory lists or collection guides; ability to write for a variety of audiences.

    Knowledge and skills preferred:  Experience with care and handling practices of paper-based media; understanding of the value of science and technical research; knowledge of topics and events related to the life and work of Carl Sagan and 20th century space science research and exploration; experience with collection processing and management, creating collection and item level descriptions, and/or producing or participating with the development of a process plan or other types of collection-level management workflows.

  • # 23 Providing Access via Descriptive Cataloging for Yudin Russian Collection (Onsite) - Germanic and Slavic Division

    Project Description: This project provides an opportunity to gain experience with cataloging standards and metadata enhancement in the Russian language while working with and increasing the discoverability of a core Library collection. In 1907, the Library purchased approximately 80,000 volumes from Siberian bibliophile Gennadii Vasil’evich Yudin which now serve as the foundation for the Russian-language collection at the Library. These materials are under-described, requiring additional research to make them more findable. Through working with and researching this collection, the Junior Fellow will learn how to apply standard bibliographic rules and how to use cataloging tools from catalogers with subject matter expertise. The Junior Fellow will upgrade existing initial bibliographic records and create new ones where needed, as their skills develop. In addition to gaining valuable hands-on experience in cataloging, the Junior Fellow will have an opportunity to conduct research on a topic of their choice leveraging the contents of the collection.

    Knowledge and skills required: Demonstrable familiarity with Slavic Studies or the academic study of Russia, the former Soviet Union and its related regions; reading knowledge of Russian.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Experience in cataloging any type of library materials; experience with Russia and/or former Soviet countries; experience reading Old Orthography.

  • # 24 The Source for Teens: Engaging Teen Audiences in The Source: Creative Research Studio for Kids (Onsite) – Informal Learning Office

    Project Description: The Informal Learning Office’s Junior Fellow will assist with the preparation, launch and implementation of the Library’s teen program in The Source: Creative Research Studio for Kids. The Junior Fellow will act as a liaison between teens and staff for the program and will serve as a public face within The Source. They will assist with disseminating information about the Library’s varied collections, provide interpretation of collections for audiences, and instruct teens on how to engage with these materials. The Junior Fellow will supplement their knowledge with collections research, connecting wide-ranging topics and presenting information. The Junior Fellow will produce training guides, define teen programs by creating methodology and structures, co-author blogs, highlight the range of collections connections, facilitate experiences, and be a mentor to teen participants.

    Knowledge and skills required: Intermediate level of proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, PowerPoint and Excel; interest in and knowledge of history, education, museum studies and library sciences; strong research ability; verbal and written communication skills; experience working with youth audiences; experience presenting information in a public setting.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Research experience at a university, library, or museum; visitor engagement experience or knowledge; exhibition design experience; creative writing, blog writing, experience working with the public in an educational capacity.

Remote Projects for JFP 2026

Remote projects for JFP 2027 will be updated in late October 2026. Projects vary from year to year.

Interns will complete the following 9 remote projects during JFP 2026. All work for these projects will be completed remotely. Each intern will be assigned to work on one project as their primary responsibility, alongside other assignments that will introduce them to the range of LOC activity. Applicants will be asked to list their top three project choices in the application.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Once selected and hired for the internship, every effort will be made to accommodate project selections. Due to the popularity of some areas of interest, preferred project placement cannot be guaranteed. All project areas may not be available at the time applicants are selected and others may be added. Applicants should be sure to indicate three project areas of interest within their applications.

Project Descriptions

  • # 01 Speculative Futures: Emerging Artists and the Archive (Remote) - Connecting Communities Digital Initiative

    Project Description: The Connecting Communities Digital Initiative (CCDI) supports projects that creatively remix and reinterpret the Library’s digital collections. A signature award of CCDI is its Artist/Scholar in Residence program, which invites established artists to experiment with the archive. Informed by this work, CCDI now seeks to understand how emerging artists interact with Library collections and how their creative processes can surface new narratives and identify opportunities for broader access. In this collections-oriented project, a Junior Fellow will  explore speculative and experimental uses of digital materials. Working across archives, digital humanities, and visual/media arts, the Junior Fellow will conduct research, select materials, develop creative concepts, and produce original artistic works that reimagine Library collections. This work encourages the reinterpretation of historically significant materials through artistic practice while building skills in digital research and creative project development. It also supports innovation in how the public discovers and interacts with Library resources.

    Knowledge and skills required: Knowledge of digital humanities; visual/media arts; archival research and analysis, and creative storytelling; skill with written and visual communication.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of copyright; fair use, and digital publishing tools; skill with multimedia production and/or public engagement.

  • # 02 Expanding Artificial Intelligence Community Engagement at the Library of Congress (Remote) - Digital Strategy Directorate

    Project Description: The Library of Congress is ushering in new perspectives and approaches with artificial intelligence. This project is to develop and execute an approach to AI Community Engagement in collaboration with Library staff, through research and developing content. Understanding and engaging with Library’s communities is at the heart of our continuous improvement and this project will focus on expanding our community engagement using authoritative sources and best practices while working with Library staff. This project is services and operations oriented, and the Junior Fellow is expected to: create a project schedule; conduct background research; plan a workshop with established outcomes; develop content for and conduct the workshop; analyze and document outcomes; prepare Display Day materials; incorporate feedback into final deliverables, and write a story or article on the outcomes.

    Knowledge and skills required: Understanding of artificial intelligence, communities, and methods of engagement; excellent understanding of the internet and online communities; good communications skills; good research skills, and good information organization skills.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of or experience with conducting research or managing work to develop an approach to AI and/or community engagement; great writing and good presentation skills.

  • # 03 Year of Digital Accessibility (Remote) - IT Design & Development Directorate

    Project Description: This project will provide support for the Year of Digital Accessibility program, an annual, themed outreach and training effort to promote increased digital access and collaboration for Library of Congress staff and users. Its success depends on engaging content and supportive staff training, and the selected Junior Fellow will broaden the program’s engagement rate and support staff learning. The Junior Fellow will research the selected 2026 theme: Year of Color Accessibility; develop and lead training, and create content to communicate accessibility concepts, which may include presentations; tips on digital accessibility; games and exercises, and articles or blogs. These activities will support the Library’s growing digital accessibility program as well as staff performance and understanding of digital accessibility issues. They will also help ensure the Library of Congress continues to meet the needs of Congress and the public.

    Knowledge and skills required: Basic understanding of digital accessibility principles and practices; English language fluency (written and spoken); enthusiasm for accessibility and disability best practices; some experience teaching or training others; strong written communication; curiosity and love of learning; experience with Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Some experience with libraries; basic web design principles; outreach and advocacy skills; basic knowledge of how vision and color impact accessibility.

  • # 04 Ensuring Copyright.gov Accessibility (Remote) - Copyright Office

    Project Description: The U.S. Copyright Office, a part of the Library of Congress since 1870, promotes creativity and free expression by administering the nation’s copyright laws and by providing impartial, expert advice. The Production and Design Division (P&D) is auditing copyright.gov’s 4,000 webpages and 26,000 PDFs and identifying where these materials do not meet accessibility standards that fall under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and web management best practices. The Junior Fellow, focusing on the most important webpages, will test whether users can successfully navigate pages; whether images have minimally descriptive alt text and sufficiently contrasting colors; and if PDFs pass basic accessibility checks. This work will connect Americans to online material and increase the discoverability of collections by ensuring everyone can access the material. The Junior Fellow will gain invaluable UX experience and will inform P&D’s guidelines for developing new websites.

    Knowledge and skills required: Desire to learn about the Section 508 Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); basic proficiency in Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat PDF reader; strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize workload; ability to independently research accessibility best practices; ability to clearly detail correction instructions and recommendations, and ability to communicate orally and in writing about project status.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Basic understanding of accessibility laws, such as the Section 508 Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Familiarity with user experience (UX) best practices; ability to read HTML code and identify elements such as alternative text and page titles; proficiency with screen readers.

  • # 05 Copyright Card Catalog Metadata Capture Project (Remote) – Copyright Office

    Project Description: The U.S. Copyright Office (USCO) Card Catalog Records offer a historically important snapshot of the intellectual and creative output of the United States, primarily relating to copyrightable expression, authorship, and copyright ownership from 1870 through 1977. The records refer to books, photographs, musical compositions, sound recordings, motion pictures, lectures, software and more. The USCO Card Catalog contains records of registration, recordation, transfers of copyright, notices of use of musical compositions, and terminations of copyright ownership. These records are available in hard copy and online, but access to the physical records is limited, and online searching is cumbersome. To improve online access, we are capturing metadata from the records. The Junior Fellow will be a USCO Historical Public Records Team member and will review and update metadata captured for the card catalog records. The Junior Fellow will have the opportunity to learn about USCO’s historical records and gain experience working with metadata and related technology.

    Knowledge and skills required: Knowledge of cataloging, metadata, and digital archiving;
    strong research skills; attention to detail; ability to follow structured workflows, and problem-solving skills.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Knowledge of one or more of the following languages (reading and transcribing): German, French, Norwegian, Greek, Russian, Italian; experience with Microsoft Access; conducting research using library catalog, search engines, and databases, and transcribing late 19th and early 20th century cursive.

  • # 06 Connecting Libraries and Educators to By the People (Remote) - Digital Services Directorate

    Project Description: Since 2018, the By the People (BTP) program has invited all Americans to connect to the Library of Congress by helping transcribe digitized collections through crowd.loc.gov. Volunteer transcriptions foster an understanding of our shared history and greatly enhance discovery of the Library’s collections. Having just crossed a major milestone of one million completed transcriptions, the Junior Fellow will work with the BTP team to expand programmatic support for libraries and educators. With the goal to improve awareness and engagement with these key connectors to communities across the nation, the Junior Fellow will be responsible for gathering feedback from internal and external stakeholders on existing programs via surveys and informal interviews, researching new avenues for public awareness, and creating recommendations. The Junior Fellow will ultimately help to elevate program outreach and tools to better connect educators and libraries to By the People.

    Knowledge and skills required: Experience with public outreach; excellent analysis and synthesis skills; strong project management skills.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Professional or educational experience in public libraries or education.

  • # 07 User Research for Library Services (Remote) - Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled

    Project Description: The National Library Service (NLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled serves as a crucial resource for individuals with visual impairments. This project will focus on supporting NLS’ patron experience research initiatives (including usability testing, one-on-one interviews, and focus groups) to gain insights into the needs and experiences of NLS patrons. Under the mentorship and guidance of experienced user researchers, the Junior Fellow will engage with patrons to understand their interactions with NLS’ resources and services. Research initiatives are intended to inform improvements in service delivery, enhance discoverability and usage, and foster a deeper connection between NLS and its patrons. This service-oriented project supports the Library’s mission to connect all Americans with its historical record and promotes greater awareness and appreciation for Library resources.

    Knowledge and skills required: Appreciation for the challenges faced by blind and print disabled individuals as well as the communication and interpersonal skills needed to positively engage with these individuals; intellectual curiosity about user-centered design and a passion for creating services.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Exposure through coursework towards or a degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), User Experience (UX) Design, or a related field that reflects an understanding of user research principles; prior exposure to populations with disabilities; previous exposure to a data analysis tool such as Excel.

  • # 08 From Websites to Archives: Preserving Digital History (Remote) - Digital Services Directorate

    Project Description: The internet is deeply embedded into modern life—it is where we share information, express ourselves creatively, and connect with others across the globe. Yet the content it contains is at risk of changing or disappearing, often without warning. To safeguard these resources for future generations, the Library has been preserving historically significant websites for over 25 years, with curated collections covering a wide range of topics, such as current events, art, science, public policy, business, social issues, and popular topics. While working with the Web Archiving Section, the Junior Fellow will learn how websites and other online content are preserved and made available on loc.gov. They will evaluate archived content to better understand and address the challenges of web crawling, create descriptive metadata, promote web archives through outreach activities, and contribute to research that supports the lifecycle management of web archive collections.

    Knowledge and skills required: Interest in preserving websites and other materials found online; ability to plan, organize, and complete work within specified deadlines; skill with working both independently and collaboratively; attention to detail; strong oral and written communication skills.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Familiarity with web technologies; experience using or working with archival material, especially web archives.

  • # 09 Exploring American Business History in the First Industrial Revolution, 1790-1840 (Remote) - Business Section

    Project Description: The Junior Fellow for this project will work in the Business Section to enhance discoverability of business-related materials from the First Industrial Revolution (1790-1840). The project focuses on creating a comprehensive research guide that explores American business and economic history through the lens of innovation and industrial growth. The Junior Fellow will curate resources on key individuals, organizations, and companies, as well as the critical role of labor. The guide will connect users to a wide range of materials in the Library's general collections, fostering a deeper and more enriched understanding of the country’s historical record and promoting awareness and appreciation of Library resources. The Junior Fellow will gain hands-on experience in collection-based research and public service and may assist with creating blog posts and "This Month in Business History” entries to make these stories more available.

    Knowledge and skills required: Intellectual curiosity about American business history; strong organizational and problem-solving skills; ability to work independently, set and meet deadlines, follow work plans, and adapt after input; good writing skills; ability to summarize and synthesize information.

    Knowledge and skills preferred: Prior study, knowledge, or demonstrated curiosity about American history; knowledge of LibGuides; experience writing blogs or similar work or academic product.

FAQs for JFP 2026

JFP 2027 details will be updated in late October 2027.

  1. What is GS-03/01 pay?

    These internships are full-time (8 hours per day, 40 hours per week), temporary staff positions at the 2026 GS-03/step 1 level (General Schedule hourly pay rate).

    Onsite projects: Onsite projects: The pay rate for onsite work in 2026 is $17.78 per hour.

    Remote projects: Interns will be paid at the 2026 GS-03/step 1 level hourly pay rate based on the location where the work is performed.

    Find your location and its accompanying hourly pay rate here: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/2026/general-schedule.

  2. What is the work schedule?

    Those selected for this position must be available to work 8 hours per week, 40 hours per week for the entire 10-week program, Monday - Friday.
    Junior Fellows work 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week and determine the specific work schedule with their Project Mentors.

    Junior Fellows begin work between 6:30 am – 9:30 am and depart between 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm. Exact start times between 6:30 am – 9:30 am are flexible; Junior Fellows and Project

    Mentors discuss requirements and arrive at mutually agreeable schedules.

    With Project Mentor prior discussion and approval, Junior Fellows may adjust their schedule within the Pay Period. For example, a Junior Fellow who typically starts work at 8:00 am and departs at 4:30 pm may request to adjust a daily schedule to start at 6:30 am and depart at 3:00 pm.

    Junior Fellows must be available to attend a mandatory orientation on May 18, 2026 from 8:30 am -12:00 pm. All times are Eastern Time.

    Onsite Junior Fellows must be able to report onsite for the entire duration of the internship. Onsite Junior Fellows are not eligible for regular telework.

  3. What is the location for this internship?

    Onsite projects will be completed within the Library’s Capitol Hill campus. Depending on the project, interns will work in one of these three buildings:

    • Jefferson Building: 10 First Street SE, Washington, DC
    • Adams Building: 120 Second Street SE, Washington, DC
    • Madison Building: 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC

    Projects 4 and 5 will be completed onsite in the National Audio-Visual Conservation Center (NAVCC):

    • 19053 Mt Pony Rd, Culpeper, VA 22701

    Remote projects will be completed throughout the continental U.S.

  4. Do I need to provide a transcript?

    Yes. A legible copy of your latest college/university transcript is required with your application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at the time of application. Your transcript will be used to certify your eligibility for the program.

    Official transcripts will be required if selected for the position. Transcripts must be issued by the college or university, and must include your name, the name of the institution, and the courses and course dates. Screenshots, JPEGs, Word or other text documents, and stand-alone course lists are not acceptable.

    Failure to submit the required legible documentation at the time of application will result in disqualification. If you do not have an unofficial transcript at your disposal, please submit another document from your institution and/or registrar’s office to certify your current enrollment.

  5. What are the selecting officials looking for in the application?

    Selecting officials will consider experience, education, and interests related to the projects.

    The Junior Fellows Program is an internship that incorporates professional learning and development opportunities. Successful candidates are interested in developing career skills and learning about the Library of Congress.

  6. I am interested in more than one project for this program. Can I apply to more than one? Must I submit separate applications for each?

    In the Vacancy Questions, you will be asked to select your three top project choices within the selected format (remote or onsite) and describe how your education, experience, interests and/or training align with your selected projects.

    Submit only one application package per format.

    If you are interested in remote and onsite projects, you must submit separate applications for each. Note that you can only be selected for one project (remote or onsite).

  7. Can I do two projects at the same time?

    No. You can only work on one project for this internship. If you apply for a remote project and an onsite project and receive offers for both, you will need to choose one.

  8. I have not started my academic program yet. I am already registered for classes. Am I still eligible to apply?

    To be eligible, you do indeed need to be taking classes already, at the point of application (or be a recent graduate between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025). While you are unfortunately not eligible for the 2026 session of JFP, please do look for upcoming internship opportunities at the Library of Congress.

  9. What is the time frame for recent graduate eligibility?

    Recent graduates between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025 are eligible to apply.

  10. Do you provide housing?

    No.

  11. Do you provide transportation?

    Transportation is not provided. Onsite interns are eligible to receive a transit subsidy for local public transportation.

  12. What steps should I take when preparing my application to make sure I qualify and meet the requirements for this opportunity?

    Assess your schedule in advance as much as possible to make sure you are able to meet the 8 hour per day, 40 hour per week time commitment within the hours of 6:30 am- 6:00 pm Eastern Time, Monday-Friday.

    Plan to submit your application through USAJOBS in advance of the deadline to allow time for any technical issues. Late applications will not be accepted.

    We highly recommend drafting responses outside of USAJOBS (in a Word document, for example) where they can be saved in the event of technical and/or network connectivity issues.

  13. What are the Vacancy Questions required for this application?
    • Describe how your education, experience, and/or training support the knowledge and skills required for your selected projects.
    • Describe how the Junior Fellows Program relates to your overall career goals and/or how you would benefit from working on your first, second, and third choice projects.

    We highly recommend that you craft responses that best demonstrate your writing skills. Selecting officials may consider your responses as writing samples, especially for projects that culminate in intern-produced written publications.

  14. What should I include in my federal resume?
    • Dates, hours, level of experience and examples for each work experience.
    • Volunteer work and roles in community organizations.
    • Numbers, percentages, and/or dollars that highlight your accomplishments.

    Please note: There is no page restriction to your resume, and you are allowed to upload a resume longer than two pages in the documents section within the application process. When the application system prompts, please proceed to the agency site to complete your application.

  15. How many academic credits do I receive in the program?

    The Library of Congress is not an academic institution and does not grant course credits. However, you may check with your school about receiving credits for your internship if interested.

  16. I am not available to start the internship on Monday, May 18, 2026. Am I still eligible?

    No. We require all Junior Fellows to report on the same day, Monday, May 18, 2026 for a mandatory orientation from 8:30 am - 12:00 pm Eastern Standard Time. During the orientation, interns will meet Library staff, learn about the program and policies, and complete onboarding tasks.

    Onsite Junior Fellows report onsite to access Orientation. Remote Junior Fellows report from their offsite work locations and access Orientation through Zoom.

  17. I cannot work 8 hours per week, 40 hours per week for the 10 weeks of the program’s duration. Am I still eligible?

    No. Unfortunately, hours are not flexible, but we encourage you to apply for other Library of Congress opportunities in the near future if your schedule aligns.

  18. What happens if I have to take leave during the first week of the program?

    Leave Without Pay (LWOP) is the option.

    Junior Fellows are not eligible to earn annual leave. Junior Fellows are eligible to earn sick leave after the first 2 weeks.

  19. Is a background check required?

    If you are selected, a background check will be required. You will be contacted by the Library’s Personnel Security Division with directions detailing how to proceed. Follow the directions carefully and complete the required tasks as soon as possible. Late submissions will impact the onboarding process.

  20. I will be living overseas during the summer of 2026. Can I still apply?

    No. Interns must be located in the continental U.S. for the entire duration of the internship.

  21. Can my internship lead to a full-time job?

    The internships come with no guarantee for permanent employment. However, we encourage those interested in careers at the Library of Congress to look at all job opportunities listed on the USAJOBS website and the Library’s Careers website. The new skills and experience gained during your time at the Library can be used as a stepping stone and the supervisor of your internship can be a valuable reference for your future job searches.

  22. Will these internships be offered in the fall or winter?

    No. Junior Fellows is a summer internship only. For additional information about internships and fellowships at the Library of Congress, visit the Internship and Fellowship Program portal: https://aj.sunback.homes/ifp Click on the Overview tab to explore other internships at the Library of Congress.

  23. What is the timeline for hiring decisions?

    Selections for all 2026 Junior Fellows are projected to be complete by late March 2026. Notices of selection or non-selection will be sent out in the first week of April 2026. If you have any questions regarding the vacancy announcement or the status of your application, please contact jobhelp@loc.gov.