DAIA Cohorts

The Diversity and Inclusion Apprenticeship (DAIA) program is focused on practical learning and hands-on experience. It aims to introduce students who reflect the diversity of our communities to careers in the field of librarianship. Apprentices will engage in various aspects of library life, including administration, programming, and user services.

DAIA is a paid apprenticeship that lasts 10 weeks, scheduling apprentices for up to 20 hours per week during the summer. DAIA apprentices are enthusiastic about public service, computer proficient, have a strong work ethic, and are able to accomplish goals. 

This apprenticeship offers valuable work experience and the opportunity to explore interests within a library setting. Interns may assist with various library functions, such as youth programming, outreach, and developing new programs, while gaining job skills and contributing to the library's mission.

Interns will be exposed to various aspects of library life, including administration, public programming, and user services. Their daily experiences will vary depending on the department, office, or library they support. Generally, interns will learn about library science and technology, including:

• Collection development (selecting and acquiring physical and digital materials or circulation)

• Reference services (helping patrons locate and utilize information)

• Information literacy (teaching patrons how to find, evaluate, and use information)

• Community engagement (supporting public programs, events, and other activities)

• Digitization and emerging technologies used in library services

• E-media and other digital resources

• Contemporary library services, such as the Central Library’s Octavia Lab.

Interested students apply online by visiting https://www.lapl.org/diversity-and-inclusion-apprenticeship. 

Past DAIA apprentices were introduced to librarianship and library work through a variety of techniques, with the core element of DAIA being mentoring and the completion of a community-based Capstone project. Librarians guided apprentices through one-on-one mentoring, with the apprentices reflecting on their experiences in online journals and creating a capstone community project. Apprentices went on field trips to academic and other specialized libraries, participated in Meet and Greets with the City Librarian and other LAPL administration, and attended panels featuring staff and special librarians.