Volunteer Opportunities

The New Jersey Historical Society is a state-wide, private nonprofit historical museum and library dedicated to preserving and interpreting the intricate political, social, cultural, and economic history of New Jersey. Through the history of New Jersey, a quintessentially American place, The New Jersey Historical Society promotes exploration of our cultures, past and present. As we challenge and inspire people to grow as learners and thinkers, we strive to make a difference in their lives. The Historical Society implements this vision through its exhibitions, programs, publications, and collections.

Volunteer placements are made based on the interest and skills of the applicant and the availability of supervision and projects. Please send a letter describing your area of interest and any relevant experience. After an initial discussion, the applicant will meet with an appropriate supervisor to determine a schedule and projects. Hours and schedules are flexible usually occurring during the administrative hours – Monday through Friday, 9 am – 5 pm but some Saturday and at-home positions are possible.

Library
The Historical Society’s Library seeks persons interested in history, genealogy, and research to assist on a variety of projects. Some current projects include preserving many fragile books and newspaper files from our collections to ensure stability; performing research with historical and genealogical requests for information; helping to inventory uncatalogued collections of printed material, ephemera, manuscript items, and images; and working with collections that could use increased access by updating current finding guides or doing background research on various New Jersey people, places, and subjects. Training for all tasks is provided.

Collections Cataloguing
For volunteers with an interest in artifacts, this position offers the opportunity to research objects, and work on data entry including changes to and completion of scholarly records in order to provide the best possible access. Volunteers may also work with the Collections Manager to inventory and catalogue collections. This will involve handling objects, and record keeping. Further research may be needed on some artifacts that may be conducted by volunteers on-site at the Historical Society’s library or at off-site resources.

Education and the Public
For the volunteer with teaching experience, and an enjoyment of working with diverse audiences, positions are available in the Education Department. Possibilities include conducting walking tours, developing adult and family audiences, and assisting Historical Society educators in afterschool programs and seasonal family festivals. In the past, unique programs have been developed with volunteers who have a special interest and commitment to a project if it compliments the Historical Society’s mission.

Docent Program
Docents will develop and lead tours for adults and help the Historical Society build and foster audiences. Training will be provided which includes information sessions on New Jersey history, public speaking, interactive teaching techniques and researching the library archives. Docents are asked to contribute ½ day a week. Positions are available weekdays and Saturdays.

Communications
In this department, volunteers will be introduced to the various communications needs of a non-profit organization. In addition to writing and disseminating news releases to the media and key constituents, the volunteer will also work with the department in the areas of marketing, special events planning, and community outreach.

Development
The volunteer will assist with the various activities required to secure funding for the non-profit organization. The volunteer may participate in research, membership expansion activities, writing funding requests, and organizing fund-raising events.