This is a unique opportunity for an inquisitive, self-motivated, and creative individual to make a positive impact on Sarasota County. Sarasota County Government is seeking a Makerspace intern in the Libraries and Historical Resources department.

This internship offers the opportunity to gain additional experience in library services and makerspace development.  Additionally, other learning experiences can be developed in relation to intern’s interest and area of study within the field of Libraries and Historical Resources.  The program will provide the intern with a constructive review and evaluation of their skills and competencies, providing growth opportunities and direction to further professional and educational development.

By the end of the internship, the intern will learn how to:

• Work in a creation station lab
• Create infographics regarding creation station equipment
• Support the development of creation station programming

Intern Responsibilities:

This internship position will be assigned to the Selby/Shannon Staub branch library of the Sarasota County Library and Historical Resources division. Professional staff will provide guidance to the intern in developing our makerspace activities and creating makerspace resources for the library system. Tasks will include best practice research, contributing to reference materials for staff development, creating programs for the public, and supporting professional staff in the makerspace. Potential topics to be addressed during the internship may include but are not limited to makerspace policy, assessment and best practices.

• A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program. 
• Participation in organized intern events.
• Ideal competencies for this position include but are not limited to the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing; flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced atmosphere; along with creative problem-solving skills. A conceptual awareness of library makerspaces is also preferred.

To learn more about Sarasota County’s Creation Stations, please visit: https://www.scgov.net/government/libraries/library-resources/creation-station

Operational Support / General Duties

These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

• Contributes sections to a How-To Wiki/Guide for the library system’s Creation Stations.
• Assists staff and public in Creation Stations.
• Helps research and develop makerspace policy.
• Contributes to Creation Station programming.
• Performs other duties as requested.

Non-Essential Functions: 

• Other duties and/or special projects as assigned. 
• These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Must be currently enrolled in a college/university, seeking a graduate (post-baccalaureate) degree or senior level graduate studies. (Proof of current enrollment required at time of application.)  May consider recent graduate of master's program.

Specific knowledge, skills, abilities and/or machines, equipment, special tools as required for the job:

• A well-demonstrated technological aptitude and creativity
• Curiosity and the willingness to experiment
• A drive to use technology to solve problems and enhance the human experience.
• Sufficient personal initiative, confidence, and responsibility to own a project and its success.
• Energy and tenacity to stick at the project and always find a path forward to complete it.
• Temperament to learn--changing behavior whenever something could be done better.
• Ability to read and follow protocols of project management.
• Effective communication skills--both writing and speaking.
• Ability to engage and gain value from those who can help during the project and in using its findings.

Schedule:  Part-time schedule

Subject to Passing Substance Screening

This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening.  An applicant who fails to pass a required drug-screening test shall be disqualified from employment in any class for a period of five years .

Drug Free Work Environment             EOE/AA/ADA