The United Nations University Library accepts internship applications from interested students who are currently enrolled in library and information sciences related courses or those who have recently completed graduate courses in library and information sciences related disciplines.

The library, including the archives & registry unit, manages library and information services, collection and information resources development, libraries networking and consortia, organizes instructional sessions, operates the registry and maintains the archives in support of administration, research and postgraduate educational programmes throughout the UNU System.

Objectives

The purposes of the UNU Library Internship Programme are:

1. to promote interaction and dialogue between young professionals and the UNU Library;
2. to familiarize interns with the library, archives & information management related activities of the UNU;
3. to provide support to activities within the UNU Library.

Description of Work

Work assignments and projects will be formed according to the study background and the experience of the intern. Interns may be assigned to assist small staff teams with some of the following:

Processing catalogued library materials; cataloguing selected United Nations publications; cataloguing UNU digital publications and other materials; indexing the catalogued materials with UNBIS; compiling subject bibliographies; collecting and digitization of historical UNU documents; assisting with public services; preparing statistical data for electronic resource usages; designing Web resources and information; relocating library materials; developing digital reference tools for postgraduate courses; research on appropriate integrated library systems and other relevant areas.

Criteria for Selection

The criteria for selection of interns are the following:

1. Applicants must have qualifications and expertise relevant to the UNU Library activities. They must have completed bachelor or equivalent in fields related to library, information and knowledge management studies or those who are pursuing postgraduate studies in the aforementioned studies. Undergraduate final year students may also be considered.
2. Have advanced knowledge of international standards on cataloguing, classification schemes and indexing tools.
3. Have experience in literature, documentation and archival research.
4. Have advanced computer skills; knowledge of standard office software such as word processor, spreadsheet and database applications.
5. For non-Japanese nationals, an appropriate visa is required.

UNU does not provide any financial assistance. No stipend or travel assistance is available; therefore, the intern must be able to support him/herself in the Tokyo metropolitan area for the duration of the internship. The United Nations headquarters in New York however, has compiled a list of potential funding sources for interns.

Procedure for Application

When you are ready to submit your candidacy, visit the Apply page for instructions.