Literary Affairs Intern, Fall 2026

About the Role & Program 

Do you have string passion for films and books? Join the Literary Affairs Department for 20th Century Studios, Searchlight Pictures, and Walt Disney Studios, where you will act as the studios' eyes and ears in the publishing world. This internship is based in New York and offers a unique opportunity to work closely in a small, close-knit team and learn the ins and outs of a niche and in-demand segment of the entertainment industry. Have the opportunity to seek out books both pre- and post-publication, as well as other forms of IP such as articles, short stories, and podcasts to consider for film adaptation. The Literary Affairs department has helped acquire film rights to literary properties such as THE MARTIAN, NOMADLAND, THE BOOGEYMAN, and the upcoming BEACH READ. As a Literary Affairs Intern, you will support the Director of Literary Affairs and gain hands-on experience in the world of storytelling and media. This role is perfect for someone who is curious, passionate, and eager to learn about the intricacies of the entertainment industry.

What You Will Do 

In this role, the intern will engage in collaborative discussions concerning books, scripts, and projects. Our objective is to establish ourselves as industry leaders, and we value hearing which genres or publications interest our interns so that we may continuously innovate and advance our storytelling.

• Track industry news and book reviews while conducting research on literary trends, authors, and potential new projects.

• Data entry and record keeping maintaining and organizing literary databases.

• Assist the New York office with various administrative tasks

• Read and verbally pitch material for the team

• Support department in the evaluation and analysis of scripts, books, and other materials.

Required Qualifications & Skills 

• Experience with proactively contributing and working collaboratively in a team environment

• Demonstrated proficiency in critical analysis of content and experience communicating insights clearly and concisely, both in written and verbal formats

• Understanding of and/or experience in literary analysis and storytelling techniques

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred Qualifications 

• Previous internship or work experience in the publishing industry

• Previous internship experience with a network, studio, publisher, agency (literary or film) or production company a plus

• Familiarity with literary databases and research tools

• Knowledge of books and features across genres and the ability to compare potential adaptations with existing properties

• Interest in current trends across film, television, and literature 

Education

• Senior year preferred.

• Major or previous coursework in Film, Cinematic Arts, English, Literal, or Marketing.

Eligibility Requirements & Program Information:  

Candidates for this opportunity MUST meet all of the below requirements: 

• Be enrolled in an accredited college/university pursuing a degree taking at least one class at time of application OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Internship. 

• Current Disney Interns, College, International, or Culinary Program Participants:  You may only work for ONE consecutive year (12 months) in any combination of an internship and/or program.   

• Be at least 18 years of age 

• Possess unrestricted work authorization 

Additional Information

• Able to have a consistent, reliable work schedule throughout the internship 

• The approximate dates of this internship are August 2026 through December 2026 

• Fully available from Monday through Friday, 9am - 6pm EST for the duration of the internship, 40 hours each week. Internship schedule will be adjusted to accommodate class schedule, and Friday hours may be remote, if desired. 

• Able to provide own housing for the duration internship program in the New York.

• Able to provide/have reliable transportation to/from work 

The pay rate for this role in New York is $22.50 per hour. Select benefits may be provided as part of the compensation package, such as medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered. To learn more about our benefits visit: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.