Massachusetts Historical Society Undergraduate Library Residency Program
Posted March 3, 2026
Do you collect stories about your family’s history? Have you ever wondered about the evolution of your neighborhood over time? Did you participate in National History Day in middle or high school? Have you enjoyed helping your kids with social studies assignments for school? Do you enjoy historical documentaries, television series set in the past, or reading historical fiction? A career in public history and archives might be for you!
The Massachusetts Historical Society hires up to two residents annually for the W. Dean Eastman and Anna Clutterbuck-Cook Undergraduate Library Residency program. Founded in 1791, the Massachusetts Historical Society is one of the oldest independent research libraries in the nation. We collect, preserve, and make available for research materials that help to tell the stories of our past. Free and open to the public, we offer access to our resources through the research library, exhibitions, public programs, and more. This residency program is designed to offer undergraduate students with an interest in pursuing a career in archives and/or public history an introduction to the field and entry-level work experience. No previous experience in public history or library work is required.
During the two-semester residency, residents will provide services to researchers who make use of the Society’s collections; complete at least one special project designed in collaboration with MHS staff; and gain a broad understanding of the public history and archival field through background reading, site visits, and professional development opportunities both within and outside the MHS. The residency pays $18 per hour for 10-14 hours per week for a total of 336 hours over the academic year. As part-time staff, residents will receive staff benefits including paid sick time, paid holidays, and professional development funds.
Applicants must have completed the equivalent of one year of undergraduate coursework and be currently enrolled full- or part-time in an accredited undergraduate program during the residency period.
How to Apply
Contact Lauren Gray at [email protected] for questions about the residency program. Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 Undergraduate Library Residency. Applications are due on April 15th, 2026.