Reporting to the Head of Manuscripts and Archives Processing in the Special Collections Processing Center at the Kislak Center, the processing archivist will arrange and describe selected series within the Philadelphia Orchestra records, a roughly 1000 linear foot archival collection documenting the history of the Philadelphia Orchestra, one of the preeminent orchestras in the world. The processing archivist will physically arrange series within the collection; create an EAD finding aid using ArchivesSpace, publishing after each series is completed, in order to provide access to the collection; and will contribute posts to the Kislak Center blog and other social media. The processor will work with internal and external stakeholders on this large, but reasonably well organized collection. This is a one year position with the possibility of extension.Job DescriptionThe Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts seeks an enthusiastic project archivist to process selected series within the records of the Philadelphia Orchestra, one of the preeminent orchestras in the world, which has a rich tradition of achievement, sustaining the highest level of artistic quality, but also challenging—and exceeding—that level, by creating powerful musical experiences for audiences at home and around the world. The records consist of approximately 1,000 feet of material dating from 1852 to the present, and including concert and event programs, photographs, scrapbooks, audio and video recording, administrative records, promotional and marketing materials, posters, architectural drawings, and other material. In addition to processing selected series within this collection, the processing archivist will participate in efforts to promote the collection and work with Special Collections Processing Center colleagues to improve workflows, policies, and best practices.Duties and Responsibilities:Physically process the Philadelphia Orchestra records, arranging the material and rehousing for permanent archival storage.Describe the Philadelphia Orchestra records, creating an EAD finding aid in ArchivesSpace, in order to provide access to the collection for researchers.Write blog posts, participate in activities or events for the Kislak Center in order to promote the collection & raise awareness to Penn faculty and students and the wider research community, and serve as point person for communications regarding contents of collection to stakeholders.Work with Special Collections Processing Center staff to improve workflows, policies, and best practices.Work with fellow processors and supervisor to strategize most efficient methods for making material accessible.Perform additional duties as assigned.
