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- Tasks: Join us to catalogue and preserve audio recordings for a major heritage project.
- Company: The British Library is a world-renowned institution dedicated to preserving the nation's intellectual memory.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a meaningful project that enhances access to sound heritage and supports cultural preservation.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of Classical music is preferred; practical experience is valued over formal qualifications.
- Other info: This role is part of a Heritage Lottery funded initiative, making a real impact on audio archiving.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 29966 £ per year.
A vacancy has arisen for an Audio Project Cataloguer to work at the British Library on the major preservation and access project Unlocking Our Sound Heritage, which is part of the British Library’s wider Save Our Sounds programme. The project will digitally preserve almost half a million sound recordings, make it easier for people to discover and access them, and establish a network of ten audio archiving centres across the UK.
The role will entail cataloguing audio recordings in the British Library’s collection which have been selected for preservation as part of Unlocking Our Sound Heritage. As well as creating and enhancing catalogue metadata, routine duties will include listening to audio, creating timecodes using audio editing software and creating and editing metadata in SIPs (Submission Information Packages).
Ideally we are looking for an individual with knowledge that complements the British Library’s sound recording collection. For this particular vacancy within the team of Audio Project Cataloguers, knowledge of Classical music and its taxonomy would be particularly useful, as the successful candidate will work largely with collections from this Curatorial area. Although a qualification of degree level or above may illustrate this, practical experience and background will certainly be taken into account. Working knowledge of a foreign language will also be considered an asset.
Please ensure you explain how you meet each of the Minimum Requirements (Essential) listed in the job profile when applying for this post. This post is part of a Heritage Lottery funded project.
In return we offer a competitive salary and a number of excellent benefits. Our pension scheme is one of the most valuable benefits we offer, as our staff can become members of the Alpha Pension Scheme where the Library contributes 26.6% (this may be higher dependant on grade). Another significant benefit the Library provides is the provision of a flexible working hours scheme which could allow you to work your hours flexibly over the week and to take up to 5 days flexi leave in a 3 month period. This is on top of 25 days holiday from entry and public and privilege holidays.
Audio Project Cataloguer wanted for British Library 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 Audio Project Cataloguer wanted for British Library
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the British Library's sound recording collection, especially in the area of Classical music. Understanding the taxonomy and key composers will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain hands-on experience with audio editing software if you haven't already. Being able to demonstrate your skills in creating timecodes and editing metadata will show that you're ready for the practical aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the audio archiving field. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with others who work in similar roles, as they may provide insights or even referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on any foreign languages you know, as this could be a valuable asset. Highlighting your language skills can set you apart from other candidates and show your versatility in handling diverse collections.
We think you need these skills to ace Audio Project Cataloguer wanted for British Library
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Audio Project Cataloguer position. Pay special attention to the emphasis on knowledge of Classical music and its taxonomy.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work related to audio cataloguing or sound preservation. Include specific examples that demonstrate your familiarity with audio editing software and metadata creation.
Address Minimum Requirements: When writing your application, clearly explain how you meet each of the essential minimum requirements listed in the job profile. Use specific examples from your experience to illustrate your qualifications.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only expresses your enthusiasm for the role but also connects your background and skills to the British Library's mission. Highlight your passion for preserving sound recordings and your understanding of their significance.
How to prepare for a job interview at International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives
✨Show Your Passion for Sound
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for audio preservation and cataloguing. Discuss any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your love for sound recordings, especially in the realm of Classical music, as this is particularly relevant for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Metadata Standards
Before the interview, brush up on the metadata standards used in audio cataloguing. Be prepared to discuss how you would create and enhance catalogue metadata, and share any previous experience you have with audio editing software.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
When discussing your background, focus on any practical experience you have in audio cataloguing or related fields. If you have worked with sound archives or have knowledge of Classical music taxonomy, make sure to highlight these points clearly.
✨Prepare Questions About the Project
Show your interest in the British Library's 'Unlocking Our Sound Heritage' project by preparing thoughtful questions. Ask about the challenges they face in audio preservation or how they envision the future of their sound collection, demonstrating your engagement with their mission.
