Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the Library of Congress offer both paid internships and non-paid internships?

   Yes.

2. How do I apply for internships and fellowships?

   Each internship has unique instructions and requirements listed. Please consult the associated link. Future: Please use our online application system to start the process.

3. How do I find an internship that matches my interests, skills and goals?

   The IFP Portal provides access to 80 internships in all departments.

4. Am I limited to applying for only one internship?

   No. Please apply for any internship that matches your skills and schedule.

5. If I'm applying for a Library vacancy, what documents must I submit?

   Application requirements vary by position, it is imperative to consult the instructions.

6. Does interning or volunteering lead to a job?

   No. While experiential learning is valuable, it is not a guarantee of a job.

7. Aren’t Internships and Fellowships considered short-term employment?

   In some cases, yes, but you may actually be considered a contractor. Consult each program separately.

8. What is the minimum age for an internship or fellowship?

   Placements at the Library of Congress are for individuals at least 18 years of age. Individuals under age 18 must have the signed consent of a guardian or other legally authorized individual in the applicable documents. If the individual is under age 18, a guardian or other legally authorized individual must also sign the agreement.

9. Does the Library have internships for High School and Community College students?

   The Library accepts applicants from high schools (within a 45 mile radius) and Community College students per program guidelines.

10. Can I submit my application to be held if an opening becomes available?

    No. Please apply to a program you are interested in specifically.

11. Can international students apply for internships or fellowships?

    Current Visa Holders are welcome to apply for many programs as described. Consult each program separately.

12. Is college credit available through Library of Congress internships and fellowships?

    The Library does not provide college credit, but you may arrange to receive credit with your university in advance.

13. How do I know if I am accepted into an internship or fellowship?

    Each program specifies guidelines, timelines for notice and contacts individuals directly.

14. Do I need a security clearance or background check?

    Each program specifies timelines for notice and contacts individuals directly.

15. Is housing available for Library of Congress programs?

    No. The Library of Congress does not provide housing to Junior Fellows, and housing is the full responsibility of the Junior Fellow.

    The Library is located on Capitol Hill in southeast Washington, DC. The closest metro station is Capitol South (Blue, Orange, and Silver lines). There is a Red line stop at Union Station, which is a 15-minute walk from the Library. Union Station is also the closest point where commuter trains from Maryland (e.g., MARC) and Virginia (e.g., VRE) stop.

    Although the Library of Congress does not provide any specific recommendations for housing, the following resources may be helpful as you look for housing in the Washington, DC-area. You may also consider arranging housing through your college or university alumni organization.

    • American University (http://www.american.edu/ocl/housing/)
    • Catholic University (http://conferences.cua.edu/summer/)
    • George Washington University Summer Housing (http://summerhousing.gwu.edu/)
    • Georgetown University Law Center (https://www.law.georgetown.edu/your-life-career/housing/summer-housing/)
    • Thompson-Markward Hall (adjacent to the U.S. Senate) (http://www.tmhdc.org/)

    There are also commercial services specializing in finding temporary housing for interns that you can find by an online search.

16. Is transportation provided by the internship/fellowship/residency/volunteer?

    “Only employees of the Library are eligible to participate in the LCTBP. This may include individuals serving under temporary appointments, interns, and work-study students, but only if such individuals are included on the personnel rolls of the Library and associated with a specific salary and expense account. This may also include any student currently enrolled in classes, not less than half-time, who provides volunteer service.”