The Center for Fiction seeks currently enrolled library school students for an onsite internship for
Fall 2024 in Downtown Brooklyn.
Overview: The Center for Fiction, founded in 1820 as the Mercantile Library, is the only
organization in the United States devoted solely to the vital art of fiction. The mission of The
Center is to encourage people to read and value fiction and to support and celebrate its creation
and enjoyment. In February 2019, we opened the doors to our new building in Downtown
Brooklyn, creating a home for NYC’s literary community. Our library collection has been in
existence since our founding and continues to be a thriving part of our nonprofit. We are a
membership library with a collection of literary fiction, mystery and suspense novels, and
nonfiction titles about fiction. Our library interns gain experience in many facets of library work
and a glimpse into a nonprofit organization with a special collection. This internship is for current
MLS students and will appeal to those interested in a collections focused internship.
Description Details: Reports directly to the Head Librarian and assists in the maintenance of
the library’s collection. Length of internship can be for one or two semesters. A minimum of 10
hours per week is required. Tasks will include:
● Catalog materials (both original and copy)
● Perform circulation tasks including check out, check in, run library and patron reports,
process holds
● Assist in weeding project of both onsite and offsite collection, including evaluation of
materials and research of authors
● Communicate with Center for Fiction members regarding library matters
Skills: Attention to detail, knowledge of and/or curiosity about special library collections,
excellent verbal and written communication, able to juggle priorities, able to work independently
on assigned tasks and work collaboratively with others, proficiency in Google apps, basic Zoom
experience.
Compensation: This is an unpaid internship but can be used for credit in an MLS degree
program. Interns receive complimentary membership to the Center and discounts on writing
workshops, reading groups and events.
Interested applicants should attach a resume and include a brief letter of introduction in the
body of the email to allison@centerforfiction.org.
