Introduction to the Summer 2026 Library of Congress Junior Fellows Program

The Library of Congress Junior Fellows Program is a paid, 10-week annual summer internship program. It enables undergraduate, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain career experience by working with analog and digital collections and supporting the services of the world's largest library.

Program Description

Working with curators and specialists in various divisions, Junior Fellows explore collections, resources, and initiatives and produce products that position the Library of Congress as a dynamic center for fostering innovation, sparking creativity, and building lifelong connections. With guidance from mentors, Junior Fellows are exposed to a broad spectrum of library work, including:

• Reference
• Archives
• Public programming
• Copyright
• Preservation
• Information technology

Program Objectives

JFP projects increase the usability of Library of Congress collections and promote awareness of the Library's resources to Congress and people across America. In the past, Junior Fellows have identified and interpreted hundreds of historical, literary, artistic, cinematic, and musical gems representing the Library's rich creative and intellectual assets.

Eligibility and Selection

No previous experience is necessary, but internships are competitive, and special skills or knowledge are usually desired. Selections are based on narrative responses to vacancy announcement questions, reference calls, and an interview with a selection official.

Program Details

The Junior Fellows Program, a signature initiative of the Library of Congress since 1991, is made possible by gifts from various foundations and trusts.

Requirements, Skills, Qualifications, and Details

• Interests/Areas of Study:
  • American Studies
  • Archival Management
  • Archival Studies
  • Art History
  • Astrology
  • Baltic History, Language or Literature
  • Business
  • Cartography
  • Communications
  • Computer Science
  • Conservation
  • Creative Writing
  • Data Science
  • Digital Humanities
  • Digital Media
  • East Asian Studies
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Engineering - Astronautics
  • English
  • Estonian History, Language or Literature
  • European History
  • French
  • French Language
  • Geography
  • Geographic Imaging Systems
  • Graphic Design
  • History
  • Humanities
  • Imaging Science
  • Information Science
  • Information Systems
  • Library Science
  • Museum Studies
  • Music
  • Music History
  • Political Science
  • Preservation – Library and Archives
  • Psychology
  • Public Policy
  • Public Relations
  • Slavic History, Language or Literature
  • Social Science
  • Statistics
  • User Experience Design and Research
  • Visual Arts
  • Yiddish
• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen
• Application Period: Annually
• Application Notes: Applications are open now through Friday, January 2, 2026.
• Compensation: These internships are full-time, temporary staff positions at the GS-03/step 1 level.
  • Onsite: $17.61 per hour for 10 weeks, 40 hours per week.
  • Remote: $17.00 – $18.79 per hour for 10 weeks, 40 hours per week. Rates are subject to variations based on federal cost of living adjustments and differences in locality pay area rates for the current year.
• Academic Credit: The Library does not provide academic credit, but you may arrange with your school in advance to receive credit.
• Available Benefits: Onsite interns are eligible for transit benefits.
• Program Duration: Short-term. Full Time. 10-week summer internship appointment.
  • Program dates: May 18, 2026, to July 24, 2026.
• Qualifications: Must be currently enrolled at the time of application at the undergraduate or graduate level, AND/OR have graduated or will graduate between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025.

Simmons University

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Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

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Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

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Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.