Library Intern chez The Henry Ford

The Ford Foundation Equity Initiative (FFEI) Internship Program at The Henry Ford is a cohort-based program that offers professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. We invite diverse candidates* who are curious about careers in the museum world to become a part of our legacy and take it forward. For Winter 2026, internships will last 15 weeks, projected to begin on January 26th and conclude on May 8th.   

*Candidates who have a disability, identify as Black, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, Arab, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, Latino/a/x, LGBTQIA+, or who exist at the intersection of these identities are encouraged to apply. All submitted applications will be considered.   

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis in the order that they are received. We encourage all interested candidates to submit applications sooner rather than later. 

How will we work together? 

The Library intern will work in collaboration with the Library and Archives team to assist with the acquisition, processing, and ongoing care of the library collections. This will include descriptive work, rehousing, and ongoing space optimization of the Library Storage facility.  You will have a project lead who will mentor and guide you throughout your time with us. The Library Intern can expect to work primarily on site at the Henry Ford’s campus in Dearborn, MI.  

Your primary responsibilities will include: 

• Working with Library team to process, describe and house collections for the reference library. 
• Consolidating and reorganizing collections to maximize storage space.  
• Support stewarding library collections through the acquisitions process.  
• Assist with potential weeding of duplicate or out-of-scope items.  
• Working collaboratively with team members throughout the institution.  
• Being willing and able to attend virtual meetings in EST time zone (GMT -4:00) and to respond to emails and messages in a timely manner. 

What should you have? 

The Library Intern should have a passion for design, innovation, storytelling, and brand.  Competitive candidates will have: 

• Attention to detail 
• A willingness to learn and take on challenging projects 
• Curiosity  
• Be authentic 
• Ability to give and receive constructive feedback 

Here are a few extras that could enhance your candidacy, but are not required: 

• Familiarity with Ex Libris products, Alma and Primo, as well as Axiel's eMu  
• Familiarity with Office suite 
• Coursework in Information Science.  

Application Materials:   

• Statement of Purpose 
• Resume   

The Ford Foundation Equity Initiative Internship Program Overview and Time Commitment 

The FFEI Internship Program’s mission is to offer opportunities in museum work to emerging professionals who identify with historically marginalized groups and to invite our interns to think outside the box and explore their careers in new ways.  

Participants will engage in the program through various bi-weekly professional development workshops hosted on our Dearborn campus. It is mandatory for participants to attend, and applicants should work with their leadership to ensure proper attendance. Workshops typically occur on Wednesdays during the work week.  

Attendance to our Intern Orientation is also mandatory. Our Winter 2026 orientation will occur on January 26th, 2026.  

Why work with THF?  

At The Henry Ford, we are committed to helping you explore your passions, curiosities, and professional aspirations. Our goal is to create a diverse and inclusive environment where you can develop your skills and integrate all that you learn into real-world practices. You will gain exposure to not only the team you will work alongside but to what it means to work in the museum world. This is an opportunity for you to develop great work habits, communication tools, and critical thinking that will help shape your future success.     

We are excited for you to come and be a part of our team. If this sounds like something you would love, please apply. We can’t wait to meet you.    

Please note: International students seeking practical training are welcome to apply.    

Funding for the 2026 Ford Foundation Equity Initiative Internship Program is provided by The Ford Foundation.  

The Henry Ford is an Equal Opportunity Employer.    

The Henry Ford prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, genetic information, pregnancy, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, physical/mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, military and veteran status, height, weight or any other such characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. This Policy applies to any employment, donor or volunteering opportunity (including but not limited to recruitment, hire, employment, program participation, promotion, salary, benefits, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment or service as a volunteer).