Curatorial Intern, Gilder Lehrman Inst (Manhattan)

Curatorial Intern 

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is a New York‐based national nonprofit devoted to the teaching and learning of American history. Gilder Lehrman draws on top scholars, an unparalleled collection of original historical documents, and a national network of affiliate schools to create and provide a broad range of innovative resources, help new generations of students learn about American history in a way that is engaging and memorable, and promotes critical thinking and excellent writing. 

About the Gilder Lehrman Collection 

The Gilder Lehrman Collection is a unique archive of primary sources in American history. Held by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and located at the New‐York Historical Society, the Collection includes more than 60,000 letters, diaries, maps, pamphlets, printed books, newspapers, photographs, and ephemera that document the political, social, and economic history of the United States. An extensive resource for educators, students, and scholars, the Collection ranges from 1493 through the twentieth century and is widely considered one of the nation’s great archives in the Revolutionary, early national, antebellum, and Civil War periods. This internship will provide a strong foundation in multiple aspects of the museum and archives profession. Interns will be trained in object handling, museum education, and cataloging. Applicants should have a strong interest in American History and considering a career in museum studies or archives. Roles and Responsibilities (including, but not limited to): 

● Collection Management 
○ Review original documents and compare records to database records 
○ Update record with new or corrected information 
○ Attach barcode labels to folders and boxes 

● Cataloging archival materials 
○ Organize discreet archives letters 
○ Read letters, and provide a summary description 

Required skills include: 
● Highly organized with close attention to detail 
● Excellent written and oral communication skills 
● Quick thinker with demonstrated problem‐solving skills
 ● Knowledge of basic collections care and management practices a plus 
● Basic knowledge of PastPerfect collections management software a plus 

Hours: Part Time, Monday ‐ Friday, 10 hours per week 
Supervisor: Beth Huffer, Curator of Books and Manuscripts 

To apply, please send cover letter, resume, and a letter of reference to huffer@gilderlehrman.org.