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Diversity and Inclusion Apprenticeship

participants of the 2023 DAIA program
Participants of the 2023 DAIA program. Pictured top left to right: Sydnee Blueford, Dipper Sanchez, Erin Eklund, Ethan Spicer, Alexa Biggs, Kurt Wong. Bottom left to right: Avery Straw, Lila Perl, Lorelyn Brutas, Caroline Romero, Katie Chan, Isabella Bernaldo

Ten-Week Paid Summer Apprenticeship

The Los Angeles Public Library is seeking students interested in a library career for the annual Diversity and Inclusion Apprenticeship program (DAIA). Through a mentored learning experience, students representing the diversity within their communities will gain hands-on knowledge in various aspects of library work.

This is a paid apprenticeship (in-person) with an hourly pay of $17.78 that runs for ten weeks, up to 20 hours per week, from June 18 to August 24, 2024. There are 12 positions available.

For more information, email daia@lapl.org.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old by June 16, 2024.
  • Be an incoming high school senior or a currently enrolled college student pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Proof of enrollment is required.
  • Be a Los Angeles County resident.
  • Submit verification of the legal right to work in the United States.
  • Be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or be eligible for an exemption (medical or religious), in accordance with Los Angeles City Ordinance 187134.

Prior DAIA apprentices are not eligible to apply for the program.

Ideal Applicants

  • Show enthusiasm about libraries and public service.
  • Are willing to share ideas and take risks.
  • Are flexible and adaptable.
  • Work well in a team environment.
  • Can accomplish goals and meet deadlines.
  • Have a strong work ethic.

Expectations

  • Begin the apprenticeship on June 18 and continue through August 24, 2024.
  • Work a flexible schedule that may include nights and weekends. Apprentices should not have other summer obligations that may conflict with their work schedule.
  • Work up to 15 hours per week under the guidance of a librarian mentor.
  • Work five hours per week at the Central Library and/or a field trip location.
  • Attend at least three field trips within Los Angeles County. Apprentices are responsible for their transportation.
  • Develop and implement a capstone community project. Introduce new ideas to enhance Library services and programs.
  • Communicate effectively and check email regularly.
  • Explore universities offering Master of Library and Information Science programs and professional library associations.
  • Spend dedicated time reflecting and writing about the apprenticeship experience.

DAIA 2023 Apprentices Share About Their Experience

 
Katie at the Sun Valley Branch Library

This experience allowed me to pursue my passions for STEAM and helping communities! This apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to make a difference in my community.

– Katie, 2023 Sun Valley Branch Library Apprentice
 

Being an apprentice with DAIA was so much more than spending time in the library. It gave me invaluable networking connections, work experience, and a greater appreciation and awareness for the Los Angeles Public Library system and all it does for the City of Los Angeles. There are so many parts that are critical to the well-being of not only the library system but the entire community of Los Angeles. I'm so grateful that I had the chance to be a part of it, and it will be an experience that I look back on as I begin to start a professional career.

– Isabella, 2023 North Hollywood Regional Library Apprentice
Isabella at the North Hollywood Regional Library
 
Photo of Lila

DAIA was truly a one-of-a-kind experience. I gained valuable experience working in a library through actually being "on the job" and made so many connections such as my mentor, my peers, and my community through my Capstone project.

– Lila, 2023 Westwood Branch Library Apprentice
 

How to Apply?

The Diversity and Inclusion Apprenticeship application is closed. If you would like to be placed on the 2025 contact list, email us at daia@lapl.org.


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