Audiovisual Archivist
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What does an audiovisual archivist do?
Audiovisual archivists are responsible for the care, management, and preservation of cultural heritage in the form of audio and video (collectively known as audiovisual) recordings. They may work in a variety of institutions, such as film archives, television archives, museums, libraries, public broadcasting stations, and private corporations.
Audiovisual archivists perform many tasks, including:
- Documenting and safeguarding both newly acquired and existing archival material.
- Cataloging and organizing recordings so researchers can discover and access them efficiently.
- Preserving and restoring audiovisual materials to ensure their long-term accessibility.
- Providing research and reference services to professionals and students.
- Maintaining climate-controlled storage facilities designed to help preserve the quality of physical materials.
How do I become an audiovisual archivist?
Audiovisual archivists typically have a bachelor’s degree in a field such as library science, information science, or communications. They may also have a master’s degree in archival studies or a related field.
Additionally, audiovisual archivists may need to have specialized knowledge of:
- The history and preservation of audiovisual media
- Storage and preservation technologies
- Cataloging and description techniques
- Copyright and intellectual property law
Many audiovisual archivists also gain experience through internships or volunteer work at archives, libraries, or museums.
