At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to catalogue diverse audio and video content for researchers and curators.
- Company: Be part of the British Library Sound Archive, a hub for sound preservation and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Immerse yourself in the world of sound while contributing to cultural heritage and knowledge.
- Qualifications: A degree or experience in classical music is essential; strong IT and communication skills are a must.
- Other info: Knowledge of a foreign language is a plus; flexibility and teamwork are key!
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
The Sound and Vision Department of the British Library is seeking to appoint a new Cataloguer. Tasks include cataloguing a wide variety of audio and video content to satisfy the needs of curators and researchers, as well as maintain and improve existing data quality, and liaise with other staff members to ensure a consistent approach to metadata standards.
You will have excellent cataloguing skills, a full understanding of the uses of cataloguing and data standards, and an active knowledge and flexibility towards appropriating those standards for an audio-visual database. You will need excellent and adaptable IT skills, good communication and time management as well as the ability to work effectively on your own and as part of a team.
While broad subject interest is necessary, it is important that you have a demonstrable knowledge of classical music, whether by at least degree-level qualification or professional experience. Aural identification of instruments and styles at least is important. Knowledge of at least one foreign language would be of additional benefit.
Cataloguer, Sound - wanted at British Library Sound Archive employer: International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives
Contact Detail:
International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cataloguer, Sound - wanted at British Library Sound Archive
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the British Library Sound Archive's existing cataloguing practices and metadata standards. This will not only help you understand their requirements but also allow you to demonstrate your knowledge during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your classical music knowledge, especially regarding aural identification of instruments and styles. Consider listening to various pieces and identifying elements to showcase your expertise in this area.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of sound archiving and cataloguing. Attend relevant workshops or seminars where you can meet people who work at the British Library or similar institutions, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
If you know a foreign language, practice discussing audio content in that language. This could be beneficial during interviews, showing your versatility and ability to engage with a broader range of materials and colleagues.
We think you need these skills to ace Cataloguer, Sound - wanted at British Library Sound Archive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities of a Cataloguer at the British Library Sound Archive. Highlight your cataloguing skills and knowledge of audio-visual content in your application.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Emphasise any experience you have with cataloguing, particularly in relation to audio and video content. Mention your understanding of metadata standards and how you've applied them in previous roles.
Demonstrate Subject Knowledge: Make sure to include your knowledge of classical music, whether through formal education or professional experience. Aural identification skills should also be highlighted, as they are crucial for this role.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Use specific examples to illustrate your adaptability and communication skills, as well as your ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
How to prepare for a job interview at International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives
✨Showcase Your Cataloguing Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous cataloguing experience in detail. Highlight specific projects where you successfully managed audio or video content, and be ready to explain how you ensured data quality and adhered to metadata standards.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Classical Music
Since a strong understanding of classical music is crucial for this role, brush up on your knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss composers, styles, and instruments, and consider bringing examples of how your musical knowledge has informed your work in cataloguing.
✨Emphasise Your IT Skills
The role requires excellent IT skills, so be sure to mention any relevant software or databases you have experience with. If you've worked with audio-visual databases before, share specific examples of how you used technology to enhance cataloguing processes.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Scenarios
As collaboration is key in this position, think of examples from your past where you successfully worked as part of a team. Be ready to discuss how you communicate effectively with colleagues and how you handle differing opinions on metadata standards.