2013 Junior Fellows Summer Intern Program

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How competitive is the 2013 Junior Fellows Summer Intern Program?

   Based on our experience with other fellow programs offered here at the Library of Congress, we expect this to be a highly competitive program with large numbers of applications from very qualified and motivated students. Therefore, we must strictly adhere to the requirements for application packages and the deadline for their submission. Interested applicants are encouraged to carefully read the application criteria and procedures.

2. What are the selecting officials looking for in the application?

   Some of the things selecting officials look for in an application are course selection, work experience, language skills, and interests related to the various subject areas noted on the announcement. As well, while not required, experience or education in library-related fields can be a plus.

3. I am interested in more than one subject area of this program. Can I apply to more than one? Must I submit separate applications for each?

   In your cover letter, state explicitly your areas of interest. Your education, experience, and general background should affirm your selections and demonstrate your wish for serious consideration for each subject area you identified. Submit only one application package.

4. Do you provide financial aid?

   No. Fellows receive a $300.00 per week stipend, not financial aid. They are also eligible for Transit Benefits, a transit subsidy program for qualified individuals who use the Metro system, Virginia Rail Express, MARC commuter trains, and county and commercial buses and qualified commercial van pools to commute to their jobs at the Library.

5. Do you provide housing?

   No. Housing is the full responsibility of the fellow. The Library of Congress does not make specific recommendations for housing. The Library of Congress is located on Capitol Hill in Southeast Washington, DC. The nearest metro station is Capitol South on the blue and orange lines. However, the red line stop at Union Station is an approximately 15 minute walk to the Library. Union Station is also the closest point where commuter trains from Maryland and Virginia stop.

   Fellows may consider arranging housing through their college or university alumni organization. In addition, the information below may be helpful to you in finding housing options:

   • American University
   • Capitol Hill Senate and House Offices intern housing information
   • George Washington University Summer Housing
   • Georgetown University Law Center
   • Thompson-Markward Hall (adjacent to the U. S. Senate)
   • Trinity University Conference Housing
   • The Washington Intern Housing Network
   • Washington Intern Student Housing (WISH)
6. Do you provide parking options for Junior Fellows?

   No. Fellows are strongly encouraged not to bring private cars to Washington; parking near the Library is very limited and expensive. The Library of Congress is located on Capitol Hill in Southeast Washington, DC. The nearest Metro station is Capitol South. Metro routes may be found at: www.wmata.com

7. How many academic credits do I receive in the program?

   The Library of Congress is not an academic institution and does not grant course credits. However, you may want to check with your school about receiving credits for your fellowship.

8. I am not available to start the fellowship on May 28, 2013. Am I still eligible?

   The orientation schedule and the length of the fellowship direct that we require all fellows to report on the same day.

9. Can my fellowship lead to a full-time job?

   The fellowships come with no guarantee for permanent employment. However, we encourage those interested in careers at the Library of Congress to look at all job opportunities listed at the USAJOBS Website. The new skills and experience gained during your time at the Library can be used as a stepping stone and the supervisor of your fellowship can be a valuable reference for your future job searches.

10. Will these fellowships be offered in the Fall/Winter?

    No. This is a summer fellowship program only.

For additional information about the Library of Congress, visit www.loc.gov.