Austin History Center

As the local history division of the Austin Public Library, the Austin History Center, located downtown (800 Guadalupe St.), provides the public with information about the history, current events, and activities of Austin and Travis County. We collect and preserve information about local governments, businesses, residents, institutions, and neighborhoods so that generations to come will have access to our history.

Current needs:

1st floor Docent: Our first-floor lobby docents introduce visitors to the AHC and our exhibit. Duties will entail welcoming visitors, giving exhibits tours upon request, answering basic questions about Austin history, and pointing people to nearby historical sites, area attractions, and libraries in the area. This is a three month commitment.

• Fridays - 2:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. (volunteer pending)

Information Science, Informatics, and Archival Studies Student Volunteer Opportunities: Students pursuing college and graduate level degrees in information science, Informatics, and archival studies often need to complete projects in professional archives under the supervision of staff for coursework requirements. Students pursuing history, preservation, conservation, and other relevant majors are also welcome to apply to volunteer in this capacity.

• Now accepting applications!

The Austin History Center has a limited capacity to work with students needing practical experience for a capstone or practicum course. The time and perspective of students is valuable to us and Austin’s community. We welcome volunteer applications as one step in the process of mentoring and supervising students in a per-semester capacity. For group class projects, faculty should contact the Austin History Center directly for options.