In a message dated 12/3/2005 11:11:14 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< We do not intend to exploit people and are purely intending to create an 
 enjoyable work and educational experience for people who wish to see all 
 sides of the museum world at work. Some of the best things we have 
 accomplished have been achieved only with the help and volunteer time of  
 graduates who wanted to help make a difference. >>

You do not need to apologize for offering unpaid internships, and I think the 
suggestion that the Danvers Historical Society is exploiting unpaid workers 
was unwarranted and unfair.  Such cynical rhetoric surfaces all too often on 
this list.  Unpaid internships are an unfortunate fact of life in today's museum 
world, but they serve a purpose, not just for the institution, but for the 
intern.  In an ideal world, interns would be paid, but experience, college 
credit, good references for future employment, and a line on a resume are also of 
value.  I don't think any internship is exploitative unless paid staff are 
goofing off while the intern works.  

David Haberstich

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