VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS
CONGRESSIONAL RESEARCH SERVICE
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION: The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a
department of the Library of Congress comprised of approximately 760
employees. The mission of CRS is to provide research, analysis and
reference services that are both objective and nonpartisan, exclusively to
Members and committees of Congress and their staffs.
The research divisions are American Law, Economics, Education and Public
Welfare, Environment and Natural Resources Policy, Foreign Affairs and
National Defense, Government, and Science Policy Research. The reference
and information divisions are Congressional Reference and Library Services.
Opportunities may also be available in our Special Programs Office and
administrative offices.
DUTIES: Volunteers assist professional CRS staff in performing research and
reference in response to public policy related inquiries. Some volunteers
can assist in the development, planning and coordinating of seminars and
briefing programs for members and committees of Congress and their staff.
ELIGIBILITY: Open to college undergraduates, graduate students, post-
graduates and professionals. Candidates should have good research and
writing skills, and knowledge computer and statistical skills are a plus.
CRS is committed to achieving diversity --- we welcome and encourage
minority applicants.
BENEFITS: Volunteers participate in the legislative process and develop
their research skills in a prestigious public policy institution. They may
also be able to earn college credit. THERE IS NO FINANCIAL COMPENSATION.
DURATION/HOURS: Appointments are typically 3 months to a year. Hours will
be determined based on the individual needs of each division and the
applicant.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Send Application for Federal Employment (SF-171) or
resume. A writing sample is suggested and may be requested. Include cover
letter with dates of availability, area of interest or expertise and two
references from faculty members and/or an employer. Students are required
to send a list of completed college courses. There is no deadline. Please
submit applications 4 to 8 weeks in advance of proposed starting date to the
following:
ATTN: Volunteer Coordinator
CRS Administration Office
LM-208, Library of Congress
Washington, D.C. 20540-7110
CONTACT: Write or call Warren Lenhart (202) 707-7641, or Michael Pearse
(202) 707-8823 (fax: 202-707-4094). For librarians: Contact Lynne Kennedy
on (202) 707-8953 (fax: 202-707-3679)
CRS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER