The Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in education, history, library science, and museum studies while working with one of the most prestigious knowledge institutions in the world. Hosted by the Office of the Librarian, this program provides both remote and onsite internship opportunities designed to support the educational use of primary sources.
Program Overview
The Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) program is administered by the Professional Learning and Outreach Initiatives Office at the Library of Congress. It focuses on enhancing education through the use of digitized primary sources, offering teaching materials, professional development, and partnerships that support educators and learners.
At the heart of the TPS initiative is the TPS Consortium—a nationwide network of partner organizations that develop educational programming and tools using the Library’s vast digital collections. This work aligns with the Library’s broader mission to engage, inspire, and inform the public through access to knowledge and creativity.
The TPS Internship Program allows interns to actively contribute to this mission by supporting the development of educational materials and programming for K–12 audiences, educators, and families.
Internship Structure and Opportunities
Each semester, the program selects up to two interns:
- One remote intern
- One onsite intern based in Washington, DC
Program Duration
- Short-term internships offered during Fall and Spring semesters
Work Schedule
- Onsite Intern: Up to 35 hours per week (9:00 AM – 4:30 PM), five days a week, including Saturday
- Remote Intern: 20 hours per week (Monday–Friday), with flexible scheduling, but must overlap with 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM Eastern Time
Compensation and Benefits
The program offers competitive stipends depending on the internship format:
Remote Internship
- $500 monthly stipend (20 hours/week)
Onsite Internship
- $750 monthly stipend (35 hours/week)
- $255/month for local transportation
- Up to $1,250/month for housing support
- Travel allowance of up to $1,000 each way (for interns relocating to/from Washington, DC)
Additional Benefits
- Access to Library of Congress internal discounts
Academic Credit
While the Library of Congress does not directly provide academic credit, interns may coordinate with their academic institutions in advance to receive credit for their participation.
Why Apply?
The TPS Internship Program is an excellent opportunity for aspiring educators, researchers, and cultural professionals to:
- Gain practical experience with primary source-based education
- Collaborate with experts and national education networks
- Contribute to meaningful educational content used across the United States
- Build a strong foundation for careers in education, libraries, museums, and public history
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be an undergraduate or graduate student in good standing, or a recent graduate (within six months)
- Demonstrate interest in:
- Education
- Library science
- History
- Museum studies
- Have experience (academic, volunteer, or professional) working with learners aged 9+, families, or K–12 educators
- Show strong collaboration and communication skills
Key Responsibilities
TPS interns play an active role in developing and supporting educational initiatives. Responsibilities include:
- Identifying primary source materials and effective learning strategies for K–12 audiences
- Learning about the Library’s collections, programs, and educational mission
- Assisting in planning and implementing educational programming
- Conducting research and consulting with Library experts
- Designing and executing a special project
- Contributing insights to the TPS Teachers Network
Onsite Intern (Additional Responsibilities)
- Engage directly with young visitors (ages 9+) and families
- Develop and deliver in-person educational activities based on primary sources
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit all required materials via email to: tpscolorado@msudenver.edu
Subject line format: “TPS Internship – [Applicant’s Full Name]”
Required Documents
- Resume
- Statement of purpose (250 words) outlining academic and career goals
- Project proposal (max 100 words) using digitized primary sources from the Library of Congress
- Transcript (unofficial accepted)
- Two academic or professional references (contact details only)
- Indication of availability (remote or onsite)
Application Deadlines and Internship Dates
Fall 2026
- Application Period: March 2, 2026 – May 11, 2026
- Internship Duration: Mid-September – Mid-December 2026
Important: All materials must be submitted by 11:59 PM (local time) on the deadline date. Late applications will not be considered.
Note: The program does not provide feedback on individual applications, but general inquiries are welcome.
The Teaching with Primary Sources Internship Program stands out as a highly enriching experience for individuals passionate about education and history. With both remote and onsite options, structured mentorship, and access to world-class resources, this internship offers a valuable pathway into impactful careers in education and cultural institutions.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are eager to work with primary sources to inspire learners, this program is well worth applying for.
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