Special Collections Accepting Applications for 2026 Student Curators

News item published on: 2025-10-14 13:59:00

University Libraries’ Special Collections is now accepting applications for the Spring 2026 Student Curator Program. Three students will be selected to work alongside a librarian to design a one-case exhibit featuring materials from Special Collections.

Through this experience, student curators will learn how to select and prepare items for display, write exhibit text and labels, install materials, and promote their exhibits.

Participants must select a topic and use materials housed in Special Collections. A list of suggested topics by major is available here. While original topics are encouraged, all exhibit materials must come from Special Collections.

Current student-curated exhibits are on display in McCain Library and Archives, Room 305, through March 16.

This opportunity is open to all undergraduate and graduate students at Southern Miss. This is an unpaid opportunity to receive experience curating an exhibit using materials from Special Collections. The total time spent on the exhibit usually ranges from 10-20 hours over the course of 4 months.

Submissions are closed for this application cycle.

For questions about topics or the application process, contact Jennifer Brannock at or 601.266.4347.