WWF Legacy Library Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) was established in 1961 and has grown to become one of the world's leading conservation organizations. With a mission to help people and nature thrive, WWF operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization partners with communities, companies, and governments to protect wildlife, conserve vital habitats, and advance sustainable solutions. WWF is grounded in science and driven by collaboration, focusing on conserving biodiversity, supporting resilient communities, and addressing climate change. The organization boasts nearly 1 million members in the United States and over 5 million globally, reflecting its extensive reach and commitment to environmental conservation.

Job Overview:
The WWF Legacy Library Intern position is designed for a graduate-level intern with expertise in library science. The primary function of this role is to assist in the design of a cataloging system and to organize various materials for the new WWF Legacy Library. The intern will apply library science principles and current cataloging practices to manage and classify a diverse range of materials, including books, reports, flyers, and brochures. The goal is to create a library that not only preserves WWF's history but also makes it engaging and accessible for staff reference and inspiration. The intern will work closely with the Facilities unit and coordinate with the Legacy Library Committee to ensure the library's effective organization and management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for coordinating with the Legacy Library Committee to design and develop a classification system for organizing books, periodicals, and internal documents that reflect WWF's organizational history. Key responsibilities include preparing a final draft guidance document on the classification system, which will include user-friendly instructions for staff volunteers responsible for library upkeep. The intern will present the draft system to the Legacy Library Committee and WWF leadership for approval. Once approved, the intern will design and implement procedures for using the classification system to process library holdings, which currently include a mix of shelved and boxed materials. Additionally, the intern will draft recommendations for ongoing library acquisition, management, and lending procedures based on the classification system and submit a final report to the Legacy Library Committee at the end of the internship.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from an American Library Association-accredited Master of Library Science or Master of Library and Information Science program. A strong interest in wildlife conservation, earth sciences, or a related field is essential. The intern should be able to apply library science principles and advancements in recording, managing, and cataloging various materials to build a library that effectively represents WWF's history. Strong organizational skills, high attention to detail and accuracy, and the ability to manage time effectively are crucial. The candidate should be self-motivated and capable of working both independently and collaboratively in a team setting. Furthermore, alignment with WWF's core values of Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration is expected.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have a Master of Library Science or Master of Library and Information Science degree from an American Library Association-accredited program. This educational background is critical as it provides the necessary knowledge and skills in library science principles, cataloging practices, and information management, which are essential for the successful execution of the intern's responsibilities.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not explicitly required, candidates should demonstrate familiarity with library science principles and practices. Experience in organizing library materials, cataloging, or working in a library setting would be advantageous. The intern should also possess strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively, which can be developed through academic projects or previous internships.

Languages:
The job posting does not specify any mandatory languages; however, proficiency in English is implied as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required for this position.

Additional Notes:
Applicants must upload their resume and a cover letter as part of the application process. Due to the high volume of applications, the organization will not respond to phone inquiries, and only candidates under consideration will be contacted. It is important to note that applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States, as this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. In compliance with federal law, all hired individuals will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Additionally, WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.