Library Internship

Medora, ND

THE THEODORE ROOSEVELT PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY FOUNDATION

“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” -Theodore Roosevelt

Since 2014, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) has been planning and building a new, ambitious kind of presidential library and museum. Other presidential libraries tell the story of a single individual, but the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) – being built more than a century after T.R.’s death – will do more than preserve history. The TRPL will be a people’s library, bringing Roosevelt’s values and relentless spirit to life at a critical time in our nation and world, while simultaneously championing the stories of all who “dare greatly, think boldly, care deeply, and live passionately.”

The library is currently being constructed in Medora, North Dakota, with a milestone planned for July 4, 2026 – America’s 250th anniversary. Participants at the TRPL will learn from – not just about – Roosevelt’s story, being transformed into the same stunning Badlands that served as the fulcrum in T.R.’s incredible life story.

Guided by the pillar principles of leadership, citizenship, and conservation, the Foundation has partnered with innovative partners – like the award-winning architecture firm, Snøhetta, and the best-in-class story crafters, the Future of Storytelling – to build an institution like no other. With plans to be the most sustainable presidential library and campus ever, a revolutionary approach to interpretive design, and programming that will spread the library’s message into neighboring Theodore Roosevelt National Park and beyond across the globe, the opportunity to join a talented team in building and opening this institution is truly unique.

About the Role

The Internship Program is designed as a rotational, hands-on learning experience that prepares participants for success across a wide range of industries. Interns gain practical skills, professional exposure, and cross-functional understanding by rotating through multiple operational areas, including café service, culinary operations, visitor experience, retail, and events.

This program is intentionally structured to build transferable skills that are highly valued in today’s job market—regardless of career path—while offering meaningful, real-world experience in a mission-driven environment.

Program Purpose

The internship provides a comprehensive foundation in workplace readiness by combining customer-facing roles, operational support, and team-based collaboration. Interns leave the program with:

• Demonstrated professional experience across multiple functions
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Exposure to fast-paced, service-oriented environments
• A deeper understanding of organizational operations

• Increased confidence, adaptability, and problem-solving ability

Rotational Experience

Interns rotate through a combination of several key functional areas to develop a well-rounded skill set:

Café Operations

Develop customer service, communication, and multitasking skills while supporting daily café operations. Interns learn beverage preparation, point-of-sale systems, and how to deliver a high-quality guest experience.

Culinary / Kitchen Operations

Build foundational culinary and food safety knowledge while working alongside the kitchen team. Interns gain experience in food preparation, kitchen workflows, and maintaining quality and consistency under time constraints.

Visitor Experience & Retail

Strengthen communication and public-facing skills by welcoming guests, providing information, and supporting retail operations. Interns learn how to create positive first impressions and engage diverse audiences.

Events & Catering

Participate in event execution from setup to service to breakdown. Interns gain exposure to event logistics, teamwork under pressure, and hospitality in dynamic, high-profile environments.

Protective Services (Safety & Security)

Gain exposure to safety, security, and risk management operations in a public-facing institution. Interns observe and support protective services such as situational awareness, visitor safety, basic incident response, and communication protocols. They develop an understanding of how security systems, field operations, and control room coordination work together to ensure a safe and welcoming environment.

Core Skill Development

Across all rotations, interns focus on building critical, transferable competencies:

• Professional Communication– Engaging effectively with guests, peers, and supervisors
• Customer & Guest Experience– Delivering high-quality, service-oriented interactions
• Team Collaboration– Working across departments toward shared goals
• Time Management & Prioritization– Managing multiple responsibilities in fast-paced settings
• Adaptability & Resilience– Responding to changing environments and real-time challenges
• Problem Solving– Thinking critically and resolving issues with sound judgment
• Attention to Detail– Ensuring quality, accuracy, and consistency in all tasks

• Operational Awareness– Understanding how different functions contribute to overall success

Professional Development Focus

• In addition to hands-on experience, the program emphasizes career readiness and long-term growth:
• Exposure to multiple career paths (hospitality, operations, events, retail, nonprofit, and more)
• Coaching and feedback from supervisors and team leads
• Opportunities to take initiative and build leadership skills
• Understanding workplace expectations, accountability, and professionalism
• Resume-building experience with measurable accomplishments

Program Outcome

• By the end of the internship, participants will have developed a versatile skill set applicable to many industries, including hospitality, business operations, nonprofit organizations, customer experience, and event management.
• Interns will leave the program better prepared to:
• Enter the workforce with confidence
• Communicate effectively in professional environments
• Adapt quickly to new roles and responsibilities
• Contribute meaningfully to team-based organizations

This internship is more than a seasonal role—it is a structured development experience designed to equip participants with the skills, mindset, and exposure needed to succeed in a wide range of career paths.

Education & Experience

• Demonstrated interest in providing excellent customer service and creating positive visitor experiences.
• Dependable team member with strong communication skills and the ability to remain composed in a fast-paced environment.
• Student or early-career professional with interest in museums, tourism, history, retail, or hospitality.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to repetitively lift 20 lbs 
• Ability to stand and remain on your feet for extended periods, up to 8-hour shifts, with scheduled breaks.
• Occasionally required to work outdoors
• Will be working in temperatures of high heat/kitchen environments
• Location: Medora, ND
• Employment Type: Full-Time, seasonal (May-August)
• Hours:40 hoursper week;typically8 hour shifts

• Shifts may include early mornings, late nights, weekends, and bank holidays

Compensation

Hour rate $22.00.

Application Instructions

As part of our commitment to preparing interns for the professional readiness, the TRPL Internship Program follows a structured, professional recruiting process designed to build practical job search and interview skills.

No prior industry experience is required—this program is designed for learning and development. To be considered, please complete the online application and submit your resume. As part of your application, you will be asked to respond to the following prompt:

“Why are you interested in the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Internship Program, and how does this opportunity connect to your personal, academic, or career goals?”

We encourage thoughtful, specific responses that reflect your interests, goals, and enthusiasm for contributing to a team-oriented, guest-focused environment.

Selection Process

Selected candidates will move forward to a panel interview, providing an opportunity to practice and strengthen real-world interviewing skills in a supportive setting.

To help you prepare, interview preparation materials and guidance will be provided in advance to those selected for interviews.

Application Timeline

• Applications due: April 17
• Interviews: April 20 – May 1

EEO Statement 

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. TRPLF does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason prohibited by law as a provision of employment opportunities and benefits.    

Reasonable Accommodation

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete your application, participate in an interview, or otherwise navigate our hiring process, please email careers at trlibrary.com. Our team will connect with you to explore the best way to support your experience. Our team will connect with you to explore the best way to support your experience.