A leader in his field has been added to the books at one of the North East’s leading universities.

Stuart Hunt has been appointed Director of Library Services and Collections and University Librarian, at Durham University.  

He will bring more than 20 years’ experience in higher education library and collection services when he takes up the post on December 1, 2023.  

Mr Hunt is said to bring a proven track record of strategic leadership, digital transformation and building external partnerships.

Read more: University appoints new library chief

He takes over from Liz Waller following her retirement after seven years’ in the role.  

Her successor has held a number of senior positions in UK universities, most recently as Director of University Library and Collections Services and University Librarian at the University of Reading. 

As a senior leader in the university, Mr Hunt will be responsible for the strategic and operational management of its libraries and collections.  

A significant part of his role will be to ensure the highest standards of stewardship, security and overall care of Durham's internationally recognised collections.

These include four collections with national designations, Bishop Cosin’s Library, the Sudan Archive and the university's Chinese and Egyptian collections. 

Read more: Durham University's historic Cosin's Library reopens

Professor Janet Stewart, Executive Dean (Arts and Humanities) at Durham University, said: “Stuart brings an impressive breadth of experience and depth of knowledge across higher education libraries, collections and exhibitions.  

“I am confident that he will provide a compelling forward vision as we seek to build the profile of and engagement with the University’s rich libraries and collections globally, nationally and locally.”   

Mr Hunt said it was, “a privilege” to take up the appointment.

“These are exciting times for Durham and for the university library and collections.

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"Durham’s world-class collections are an integral part of the excellence in research, education and public engagement at the university and contribute to Durham being a world-leading university.”

He added that he was, “enthusiastic to take forward the outstanding work at the university”, with the aim of delivering on, “a unique and distinct experience in libraries and collections.”