The George Camp Keiser Library is the intellectual cornerstone of MEI, housing one of the most comprehensive Middle East collections in Washington, DC. More than 25,000 books, 300 periodicals, and a large collection of CDs and DVDs are accessible to students, researchers, and the general public. Library research interns are crucial to running the library, expanding its reach, and doing research projects, which enable them to explore the vast collection.

1)Creation of a Library Research Guide

The library intern will create a detailed annotated bibliography on a topic to be chosen in consultation with the librarian. The intern is expected to create the guide by thoroughly researching the topic using the George Camp Keiser Library's resources. The intern will also be expected to familiarize him/herself with book reviews on the given topic and provide a list of recommended works to the librarian that should be added to the collection. The intern's progress will be checked periodically by the librarian. The intern is expected to complete the final guide by the end of his/her internship. Once edited by the librarian, the guide will be published on the library's web page. If two library interns are present it is recommended strongly that they collaborate together on a single project.

2) Assistance with Reference

The intern will be expected to provide reference assistance to MEI patrons, staff, and visiting scholars. The intern will also provide instruction to patrons on how to use the library catalog and other electronic databases. Reference services will be provided in person and over the phone.

3) Assistance with Circulation and Shelving

The intern will assist in checking out books to patrons and receiving returned books. The intern will help shelve books and periodically check the stacks to make certain the books are arranged by proper call number. The intern may also be asked to assist the librarian in shifting books within the stacks.

4) Submission to the Quarterly MEI Bulletin

Using materials owned by the library, the intern will submit a short annotated bibliography pertinent to the current theme of MEI's Bulletin, accompanied by a short book review (maximum 1 page).

5) Assistance with Other Functions

The intern may be asked to assist with other functions including but not limited to updating older research guides, processing books, help with library promotion and outreach, photocopying, sale of used books, and the collection of late fees from patrons.

Technical skills:

• Superior research, writing, analytical, and public service skills.
• Knowledge of the Library of Congress Classification System, familiarity with WorldCat, and previous experience working for a library are strongly desired.