MUSEUM OF DANISH AMERICA

www.danishmuseum.org

INTERNSHIP:  Collections Assistant

The Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn, Iowa is the only national museum that tells the story of Danish immigration to the United States, the influence of Denmark on American culture today, and contemporary Danish America.  Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Museum is in the final stages of a full inventory and cataloging project for its collections.  This project, which began in 2006, is expected to be completed within the next two years.  Once the inventory is finished, all known information about the entire collection will be electronically accessible through the PastPerfect 5.0 database both in-house and via the Museum’s website under “View Our Collection.”

Position Description:

The Collections Assistant will primarily work with the photograph collection which numbers approximately 6100 photos and postcards.  Currently, a basic record exists in PastPerfect for most of photos and the majority have been digitized.  Occasionally the Collections Assistant will be required to create a new catalog record or scan of the photograph.

Fuller descriptions of what the photographs depict will be created, as well as physical details like dimensions and condition reports.  Additionally, and most importantly, all identifications or other documentary information currently in artifact files will be added to the database records.  During the project, existing box inventories will be confirmed and updated as needed.

In addition, the Collections Assistant may help catalog new donations into the collection as needed.  All interns are also involved in Collections Review Committee and Exhibitions Committee meetings, outreach activities (on and off site), and in behind-the-scenes tours to other museums for professional development and networking opportunities.  Both American and Danish students participate in the Museum’s internship program, and enjoy free shared housing just two blocks from the Museum.

Position Details and Benefits:

Duration/Hours:  Six months, 40 hours per week

Pay:                    $500 monthly stipend

Benefits:            Rent-free, fully-furnished house (includes all utilities)

Start Date:        September 1 or later (can be flexible)

Position Requirements:

Masters degree or intended graduation from a Museum Studies program, though undergraduates and candidates with a degree in History or a related field may be considered; excellent writing skills; strong attention to detail; ability to handle large work loads and meet deadlines; ability to perform the physical requirements of the position including standing for long periods of time and lifting heavy objects; and ability to work well alone and in a group.  Optional, but highly preferred:  museum registration and/or inventory experience, and familiarity with PastPerfect software.

Application Deadline:  Must be received by midnight May 31, 2017.  Selection made by June 30.

 Application Details:  Send letter of interest and resume (email or hard copy) to:  Museum of Danish America, Attn:  Angela Stanford, 2212 Washington Street, Elk Horn, IA  51531.  Questions may be directed to: angela.stanford@danishmuseum.org.