Are you a friendly college student who enjoys working with people and helping the community? Are you interested in learning how libraries operate and how their work creates a positive impact? Join our team at the Downers Grove Public Library (DGPL) this summer for a 12-week paid internship. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a welcoming environment while building valuable skills.
What you’ll do:
- Provide reference and readers’ advisory services
- Provide excellent customer service to patrons
- Instruct patrons in the use of electronic resources such as online databases and other equipment
- Participate in outreach activities and library programming
- Complete a capstone project and other special projects as assigned
What we’re looking for:
- Interest in public libraries and library science
- Ability to work with patrons of all ages
- Ability to pay attention to detail
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
- Ability to work well as part of a team as well as independently
- Strong technology skills
- Excellent customer service skills
What you’ll gain:
- Professional experience in customer service and library operations
- Exposure to a variety of library roles and types
- Mentorship from library professionals
- The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution through a variety of projects
This is a temporary, part-time internship position averaging 30 hours per week for 12 weeks between May and August 2026. The intern will generally be scheduled Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. with possible evening and weekend hours, depending on special projects. Hourly pay is $15.12-$17.01. This is a non-IMRF (Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund) position.
Interested candidates should submit a resume, application, and cover letter explaining interest in the position to Van McGary, Adult & Teen Services Manager, at vmcgary@dglibrary.org by Sunday, February 8, 2026.
