The Library of Congress is the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States, with a rich history dating back to 1800. As the nation's library, it is a hub for knowledge, research, and innovation, offering a wide range of employment opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds and with various skill sets. With a collection of more than 170 million items, including books, manuscripts, photographs, and other materials, the Library of Congress is a unique and dynamic workplace that supports the research needs of Congress, the federal government, and the American people.
Overview of Employment Opportunities
The Library of Congress employs approximately 3,000 people in a variety of roles, including librarians, curators, archivists, researchers, IT specialists, and administrative professionals. Employment opportunities are available in various departments and offices, such as the Collections and Services Directorate, the Digital Collections and Services Directorate, the Law Library, and the Office of the Librarian. The Library of Congress also offers internships, fellowships, and volunteer opportunities for students, recent graduates, and professionals looking to gain experience and build their skills.
Types of Employment Opportunities
The Library of Congress offers a range of employment opportunities, including:
- Librarian positions, such as collection development, cataloging, and reference services
- Curatorial positions, such as exhibit development, collection management, and conservation
- Archival positions, such as appraisal, acquisition, and processing of historical records
- Research positions, such as research assistance, data analysis, and policy development
- IT positions, such as software development, system administration, and network management
- Administrative positions, such as human resources, budget, and facilities management
The Library of Congress also offers opportunities for advancement and professional development, including training programs, mentorship, and education assistance. Employees are encouraged to pursue continuing education and professional certifications to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Application Process
To apply for employment opportunities at the Library of Congress, candidates must submit their applications through the USAJOBS website, which is the official job site of the US federal government. Candidates can search for job openings by keyword, location, and job category, and apply online with their resume and supporting documentation. The application process typically includes:
- Submitting an application through USAJOBS
- Completing an online questionnaire
- Providing supporting documentation, such as transcripts and certifications
- Participating in an interview or assessment process
- Receiving a job offer and completing the onboarding process
The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. The Library is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and strives to create a workplace that reflects the diversity of the American people.
| Department | Job Title | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Collections and Services Directorate | Librarian | $60,000 - $100,000 |
| Digital Collections and Services Directorate | IT Specialist | $70,000 - $120,000 |
| Law Library | Legal Researcher | $80,000 - $140,000 |
Internships and Fellowships
The Library of Congress offers internships and fellowships to students, recent graduates, and professionals looking to gain experience and build their skills. These opportunities are available in various departments and offices, and provide a unique chance to work with the Library’s collections and staff. Internships and fellowships are typically paid, and may include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
Types of Internships and Fellowships
The Library of Congress offers a range of internships and fellowships, including:
- Summer internships for students and recent graduates
- Fellowships for professionals and scholars
- Volunteer opportunities for individuals looking to gain experience and build their skills
Internships and fellowships at the Library of Congress provide a unique opportunity to work with the nation's library and gain hands-on experience in a variety of fields, including librarianship, curatorship, archives, research, and IT. Participants are encouraged to pursue their research interests and contribute to the Library's mission to support the research needs of Congress, the federal government, and the American people.
What types of employment opportunities are available at the Library of Congress?
+The Library of Congress offers a range of employment opportunities, including librarian, curatorial, archival, research, IT, and administrative positions.
How do I apply for employment opportunities at the Library of Congress?
+Candidates must submit their applications through the USAJOBS website, which is the official job site of the US federal government.
What benefits does the Library of Congress offer to its employees?
+The Library of Congress offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, to support the well-being and career development of its employees.
