While the University Archives at Milner Library works toward preserving Illinois State University’s past, the Milner Library University Archives’ internship program aims to change the future of students’ lives by providing them with opportunities to learn and discover new skills and careers.  

Milner Library has launched a crowdfunding campaign to ensure the sustainability of the internship program and elevate the intern experience at Illinois State. The goal is to raise $10,000 by November 30 from the Redbird community and friends of Milner Library. 

Through University Archives, student interns can explore and enhance their learning by processing materials donated to the archives, developing Wikipedia content research and creation, and curating exhibits with archival materials. Student interns can also work on research and social media projects while engaging with organizations like the YWCA and the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois.  

The Dr. Jo Ann Rayfield Archives includes selected materials regarding documented history of Illinois State and university life. The goal behind the archives is to create an accessible environment to support Milner Library and the Illinois State community’s research and teaching goals. The archives preserve and document Illinois State’s legacy for future generations. 

Milner Library’s fundraising campaign would further involve students in its archives efforts. The campaign’s goal of $10,000 will assist students by providing paid internships so they can focus more on their work at the archives instead of worrying about financial stress. 

“The goal behind the Hatch campaign is to provide financial support to ensure the stability and continuity of the archives internship program,” said Michelle Neuffer, the director of marketing and communications for Milner Library. “‘Hands-on archives opportunities are relatively rare, and providing support for these internships offers interns valuable career experience that otherwise may not be possible. In addition, offering financial support for internships instead of exclusively course credit means that students from every background can access this opportunity.” 

Reaching the goal would allow Milner Library to hire multiple interns and support their individual successes, strengthen community partnerships, and better its backlogs of processing for the Archives. Donations will provide intern stipends and expose them to new opportunities and career options.  

Sarah Kaufman is an Illinois State alum and past intern for the University Archives. While working toward her master’s degree in history, Kaufman’s drive and dedication to her work at the University Archives grew. 

“It was something that changed my life,” Kaufman said. “I can honestly say I would not have the career path or the job that I’m currently in without (the internship). I was very lucky and very fortunate to basically get the internship that allowed me to work in the University Archives and meet all the wonderful people that I did.” 

Based on her experience with the University Archives, Kaufman chose to achieve another master’s degree in library information science. Kaufman now works as the digital capture specialist in special collections at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga  

“So, definitely small things can make a large difference,” Kaufman said. “I can always say those are small impacts but make a career difference for students.”

Neuffer said the University Archives’ internship program assists students in learning how they can transfer their skills across multiple career paths.  

“These internships allow students to explore a potential career path that they may not have considered,” Neuffer said. “Our archives interns go on to work in museums, universities, and other cultural institutions, and it’s important to show students that these careers are valued and supported at Illinois State.” 

Contribute to the Milner Library University Archives Internship program today. 

To give or learn more about giving opportunities, call the Office of Annual Giving at (309) 438-4483.