Longleaf Press

Opportunities

Opportunity: Summer Internship

Position Description: Longleaf Press seeks a motivated Davidson College English major or minor for a summer internship offering hands-on experience in independent publishing. Working closely with the press's President and Executive Director, the intern will gain firsthand insight into the editorial, administrative, marketing, and production work involved in running a small literary press.

This is an opportunity for students interested in publishing, writing, editing, communications, or literary arts to contribute meaningfully to an established nonprofit organization while developing practical skills and professional experience.

Responsibilities may include:

• Editorial and Publication Projects: Assist with upcoming book publications, including manuscript preparation, proofreading, editorial research, and other aspects of the publishing process.

• Literary Contests: Help administer Longleaf's literary contests, including managing submissions through Submittable, communicating with judges, and assisting with the selection process.

• Marketing and Communications: Contribute to newsletters, social media, and other outreach efforts. Research and develop strategies to expand Longleaf's readership and strengthen its engagement with the literary community.

• Research and Development: Conduct research on independent publishing, fundraising, audience development, and opportunities for collaboration. Help identify and implement new initiatives that support the press's mission.

• Administrative Support: Assist with mailing lists, submission management, organizational tasks, and other projects essential to the operation of a small nonprofit publisher.

• Special Projects: Depending on the intern's interests and experience, opportunities may include working on special publications, broadsides, or other letterpress projects in collaboration with Davidson's Letterpress Lab.

The intern will have opportunities to take ownership of individual projects while also collaborating with the publisher and other interns. Responsibilities will be tailored, in part, to the student's interests, strengths, and professional goals.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• An interest in poetry, contemporary literature, and independent publishing.

• Strong writing, editing, and research skills.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Familiarity with social media and digital communications.

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.

• Initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to learn new skills.

Previous publishing experience is not required. Students with interests in communications, marketing, graphic design, or book arts are also encouraged to apply.

Hours

Part-time position, approximately 20 hours per week, for the duration of the summer internship program. The schedule will be flexible with opportunities to work remotely, with hours arranged in consultation with the publisher. 

Interested? Students can apply directly to Executive Editor Shannon Ward at longleafpress@gmail.com. Please include a brief cover letter or introductory email describing their interests and relevant experience, along with a résumé/CV.