Public Services Student Intern (Plan II Majors Only)

This is a paid, hourly internship for undergraduate and graduate students who are Plan II majors at the University of Texas at Austin. The internship runs for 10 hours per week during the Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 semesters.

About the Role

The Ransom Center is an internationally renowned humanities research library and museum at The University of Texas at Austin. Its extensive collections provide unique insight into the creative process of writers and artists, deepening our understanding and appreciation of literature, photography, film, art, and the performing arts. Visitors engage with the Center's collections through research and study, exhibitions, publications, and a rich variety of program offerings including readings, talks, symposia, and film screenings.

This immersive opportunity will teach interns how to guide diverse researchers—from undergraduate students to international scholars—through unique primary sources, equipping them with the foundational skills needed for professional roles in libraries, archives, and museums.

Responsibilities

• Trains on and staffs multiple service points in the Reading Room, including the Circulation and Reception desks
• Locates, pulls, and re-shelves manuscripts, books, and other collection materials for patrons, classes, presentations, and other special projects
• Enters and tracks location of materials in an automated circulation system
• Assists researchers with materials handling and assists with basic reference inquiries
• Special projects will focus on enhancing the Reading Room experience through creating and updating policies and creating FAQs

Learning Outcomes

• Function as a professional within a library-archive-museum environment
• Increase awareness of materials within the Ransom Center’s holdings on specific topics
• Safely handle rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and other collection materials
• Conduct research in an archive

Requirements

• Strong research and communication skills
• Strong organization and attention to detail
• Ability to collaborate on projects as well as work independently
• Time management and commitment to keeping a regular work schedule
• Experience conducting research
• Interest in working with and interacting with the public

Pay

$15.00/hour at 10 hours per week

Schedule

• 10 hours per week; schedule will be discussed at the interview and set by the supervisor and intern
• Flexibility to work around class schedule
• Requires onsite interaction with Ransom Center staff and collections
• Occasional weekends may be required for mission-related events

Working Conditions

• May work around standard office conditions, including repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Ability to work outside in all types of weather, including extreme temperatures
• May stand or sit for long periods of time