Tim Gollins, an international information specialist, has been named director of Vanderbilt University Special Collections and University Archives, effective March 6. Gollins joins Vanderbilt from the National Records of Scotland, where he was head of preservation and information management leading a team of 25 archivists, conservators and information professionals. At NRS, Gollins was responsible for all aspects of physical and digital archival preservation, conservation and information governance.
As Vanderbilt’s Special Collections and University Archives aligns more closely with the university’s instructional and research needs, the library is re-evaluating the way it collects, preserves and makes accessible its collections. Gollins will work closely with library staff, faculty and university administration to develop ways to elevate and assess the library’s resources and services.
“Tim’s career contributions to international information workflows and practices give the libraries a rare opportunity to expand the way our collections are used globally,” University Librarian Jon Shaw said. Prior to coming to NRS, Gollins was head of digital preservation at the United Kingdom National Archives and an information manager on a major classified information technology and transformation program at the U.K. Cabinet Office.
He earned his master of science in information management at the University of Sheffield as well as a master of science in computer science at University College London. His undergraduate degree in chemistry is from the University of Exeter.
In a period of increased demand and growth of digitized and born-digital collections, Gollins brings international expertise in best practices and efficiencies in digitization, digital preservation and digital archiving. His extensive experience with digital and print preservation will enrich the libraries’ professional practices and procedures, and his connections to information professionals around the globe can expand the reach of the libraries’ collections.
“I am thrilled to welcome Tim to Vanderbilt,” said Celia Walker, associate university librarian for distinctive collections, engagement and strategic assessment. “He comes to us at the perfect moment as we expand our digitization program to make collections more accessible to faculty, students and scholars around the world.”