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 gain hands-on knowledge in various aspects of library work.
This is a paid apprenticeship (in-person) with an hourly pay of $22.18 that runs for ten weeks, up to 20 hours per week, from June 16 to August 23, 2025. There are up to 20 positions available.
For more information, email daia@lapl.org.
Eligibility Requirements
- At least 18 years of age by June 15, 2025.
- Incoming high school seniors or currently enrolled college students pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Proof of enrollment is required.
- Live in Los Angeles County.
- Must submit verification of the legal right to work in the United States.
Ideal Applicants
- Show enthusiasm about libraries and public service.
- Are good listeners.
- 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 16 and continue through August 23, 2025.
- Work up to 20 hours per week under the guidance of a librarian mentor and develop and implement a capstone community project.
- Work five hours per week at the Central Library and/or attend up to three field trips within Los Angeles County. Apprentices are responsible for their own transportation.
- Communicate effectively and check email regularly.
- Be available throughout the day, with no other weekday summer obligations (summer school or weekday job).
- Complete scheduled rotations within Los Angeles Public Library locations.
- Tour neighboring library systems.
- Explore universities offering Master of Library and Information Science programs and professional library associations.
- Spend dedicated time reflecting and writing about the apprenticeship experience.
- Introduce new ideas to enhance Library services and programs.
How to Apply?
To be considered for the Diversity and Inclusion Apprenticeship, applicants must submit a completed application packet.
Application packets will be accepted through March 1, 2025, 11:59 PM (PST), or until a sufficient number of applications have been received. Email the complete application packet to daia@lapl.org, with the subject line “DAIA 2025.”
- If you meet our criteria, download and complete the DAIA Application Packet.
- Supplemental Questionnaire & Scheduling Availability Questionnaire.
- LAPL Application – If your work experience is limited, please include your volunteer experience.
- Reference List.
- If you meet the requirements, you will be invited for an interview.
- If you are selected as an apprentice, you will begin DAIA on June 16, 2025.
DAIA 2024 Apprentices Share About Their Experience
Violet Paulsen
Gabriel Carrillo
DAIA 2023 Apprentices Share About Their Experience
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
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