RISM Cataloger (Temporary) Isham Memorial Library- Harvard University (Cambridge, MA)
Posted August 12, 2026
Description
Reporting to the Curator of the Isham Memorial Library, the RISM Cataloger works with digital surrogates to create and enhance high-quality metadata to support discovery and access. The position emphasizes advanced cataloging according to current standards and best practices, including the RISM Guidelines. The RISM Cataloger and the Curator will collaborate closely to refine workflows and local practices, maintaining a user-centered approach to technical services.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Creates and upgrades RISM records for music scores, chiefly manuscripts, adhering to the RISM Guidelines and applying other standards when needed (e.g. RDA, DCRM(B), DCRMR). Materials may include language content in Romance languages or German.
- Conducts analysis and research to verify, enhance and create high-quality personal and corporate name authority records in RISM.
- Ensures accurate recording of provenance, binding and other copy-specific details, and other unique characteristics.
- Applies accurate and relevant subject and form/genre headings.
- Contributes to the development and refinement of metadata workflows that support discovery and access.
- Participates in best practices for inclusive and reparative description where appropriate.
- Works closely with the Curator and other colleagues to ensure that individual cataloging work aligns with unit-wide policies, priorities, and standards.
- Assists with project planning as needed.
- Provides feedback on cataloging workflows, tools, and documentation.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education and experience required.
- Excellent music-reading ability required and may be tested.
- Subject knowledge in music, such as coursework related to musicology or music theory, or experience as a performer, required.
Additional Requirements
- Previous experience with music cataloging helpful but not required.
- Library degree (completed or in progress) appreciated.
- Attention to detail, particularly in transcription, important.
- Must be able to learn new technologies and systems.
- Familiarity with secondary sources such as thematic catalogs (e.g. Bach-Werke-Verzeichnis) and music encyclopedias (e.g. Grove music online) desirable.
Hours and Compensation
- Salary: $25.00 / hour
- Schedule: 3-4 hours/week
How to Apply
Please submit resume to [email protected].