Department of Records and Information Services internship opportunity for Fall 2026
New York City Municipal Archives
Founded in 1950, the Municipal Archives preserves and makes available the historical records of New York City municipal government. Dating from the early seventeenth century to the present, the Municipal Archives comprises the largest local government archive in North America. Acquired from city agencies, the Archives hold the records depicting the daily work of city government, including paper records, digital collections, web archives, still and moving images, ledgers and docket books, vital records, cartographic materials, blueprints, and sound recordings. Learn about our collections.
Position Overview
The Municipal Archives invites applicants for two unpaid internship positions. Working with the Municipal Archives provides an exciting opportunity to gain practical experience in various aspects of archival work, including but not limited to digital programs, collections management, and reference services. Under supervision, the interns will work alongside staff to gain experience with archival collections by supporting reference services and contributing to digital preservation processes.
Possible Responsibilities Include:
Reference and Research Services: Assist in providing reference services and support both internal and external research efforts. Learn to handle and resolve a broad spectrum of inquiries, ranging from straightforward questions about vital records to complex historical, legal, and research requests.
Learning Objectives:
• Practical experience in archival processing, appraisals, archival digitization and/or entry-level conservation.
• Knowledge and skills in using archival management, reference services, digital preservation systems
• Aeon / ArchivesSpace / Preservica / Filemaker / Dropbox / Microsoft 365 Suite
• Acquire hands-on experience providing reference services to the public, including researchers, genealogists, students, legal professionals, and city agency staff.
Qualifications:
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Master’s degree program in Library Science, Archival Studies, History, or a related field.
• Basic knowledge of archival management and conservation practices.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle physical tasks, including lifting and moving materials and using ladders when necessary.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Enthusiasm for learning and contributing to the field of archival science.
Preferred Skills:
• Desire and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with ArchivesSpace or experience writing and editing detailed collection guides, inventories.
• Familiarity with DACS or other archival metadata schemas
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Experience in archival digitization work and/or digital photography.
To Apply:
Applicants can just send an email/cover letter and resume to Brian Ferree, Associate Public Records Officer, at bferree@records.nyc.gov.
