Library Intern John Hope Franklin Research Center, Duke Library

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Be You.
At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the powerful perspectives each member of our community brings. As the John Hope Franklin Research Center Intern, you’ll become an essential member of a mission‑driven, collaborative team within the David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library—helping preserve, describe, and illuminate histories that shape our world.

Be Bold.
Step into a role where your curiosity, independence, and professionalism directly impact how future researchers engage with vital collections. As the John Hope Franklin Research Center Intern, you’ll work within the Rubenstein Library’s Technical Services department to process, organize, and describe special collections that advance our understanding of African and African American history.
This is your opportunity to sharpen archival skills, take ownership of meaningful projects, and help steward collections that matter.

What You’ll Do

Archival Processing & Description — 80%

• Collaborate with Technical Services Archives staff to complete archival and manuscript processing and description projects.
• Ensure high‑quality descriptive records that meet national and local archival standards.
• Partner with your supervisor and the Center’s Director to refine workflows, set priorities, and develop processing plans.
• Conduct research to create accurate collection descriptions and scope notes.
• Learn and work with archival tools, including ArchivesSpace.

Experiential Learning — 20%

• Gain hands‑on experience working with rare and unique special collections materials.
• Become adept at navigating and conducting research within the library.
• Explore approaches to special collections instruction and engagement.
• Meet regularly with the Franklin Research Center Director.
• Join an archival cohort and participate in structured professional development.

Additional Duties

• Work in environments where exposure to dust or mold may occur.
• Regularly reach high and low shelving.
• Occasionally lift or move boxes up to 30 lbs.
• Complete the majority of work onsite.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Interested in Learning More?
Join the hiring managers for an information session:
Wednesday, March 18th
2:00–3:00pm ET
Zoom: https://duke.zoom.us/j/93327587232?pwd=bXAEPXe4lpygJzirthUqJdNjlAbycZ.1&jst=1
Meeting ID: 933 2758 7232
Passcode: 128838

What You’ll Bring

Education

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Must be currently enrolled in—or a recent graduate (within two years) of—an accredited advanced degree program.

Experience

• No prior experience required.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical, organizational, and writing skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Academic background or interest in African and African American studies.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Preferred: previous experience in a special collections setting and/or completion of coursework in public history, archival theory, or archival practice.

Anticipated Pay Range
This is an on-site, part‑time internship (18 hours/week) runs August 2026–May 2027 at a hiring rate of $18/hour.

Choose Duke.
Join a dynamic, mission‑driven environment where your strengths, passion, and professionalism help advance the Duke University Libraries’ commitment to discovery, equity, and academic excellence.

Ready to Make a Difference?
Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.