Stu Baker

Acting Associate University Librarian for Information Technology

1970 Campus Drive
University Library
Evanston IL 60208-2323
(847) 467-1984

stubaker@northwestern.edu

Areas of Responsibility

Leads the planning, implementation, and evaluation of University Library's information technology infrastructure in support of automated operations, online services, and digital library development. Develops information technology strategies to support the library's vision for improved operations, resources, and services. Provides expert advice and assistance on matters relating to information technology throughout the libraries of the university. Oversees the management and operations of the information technology division, a major unit of the library organization engaged in digital repository and online services development; and in support of major library systems, student computing labs, staff and public workstations. Directly or indirectly supervises division staff (currently 15 professional staff positions). Provides vision for, plans, organizes, prioritizes, and reports on the work of the division. Plans and oversees procurement of automated systems and software as well as network, server, desktop and peripheral hardware. Investigates, compares, and tests options and services. Negotiates contract terms with hardware and software vendors. Monitors and arranges adjustments in hardware and software support provided to the library and to library staff through various university offices and organizations. Acts as University Library's chief liaison with the university's information technology division (NUIT). Plans development and ensures the smooth operation of library systems (e.g. Voyager, SFX) that NUIT supports as university enterprise systems. Works with NUIT to ensure appropriate planning and smooth operation of major server systems, mass storage solutions, and policy regarding data security and stewardship. Initiates, encourages, and coordinates collaborative projects, particularly but not exclusively, with the academic technology unit of NUIT. Works with other Northwestern University information technology staff, campus purchasing specialists, and the office of general counsel on matters related to acquisition of hardware, software, and technology support services. Promotes communication and cooperation among the library IT division, departments in other divisions of the University Library, and the Chicago campus libraries. Manages workstation deployment and support for all library divisions. Coordinates and supports digital projects, programs, and initiatives taking place in the digital collections department and in other units throughout the library organization. Seeks partnerships and manages collaborations with other organizations internal and external to Northwestern University. Represents University Library in meetings, groups, and forums as required or requested, especially those in which the focus is information technology. Standing representational responsibilities include membership on the CIC (Committee on Institutional Cooperation) library information technology directors and several groups internal to NU (e.g. school technology leaders, information technology coordinating council). Serves on the administrative committee, the university librarian's cabinet. Serves on interdivisional committees for digital library and web services planning and provides a communication link between those groups and the administrative committee. Assists the university librarian and works with other members of the administrative committee to carry out the mission of the library. Participates in the management council, a policy-making forum for department heads and senior management.

last updated: Sept 16, 2008