Library Staff profiles

Have you ever wanted to find out more about the people who work at Avery Hill and Stockwell Street Library? Of course you have! We continue our weekly profiles of the various staff you may spot or speak to at our libraries. Find out what they do, both inside and outside of working at the University of Greenwich!

This week we profile the Director of Information and Library Services at the university, Paul Butler.

Paul Butler

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AT THE UNIVERSITY/LIBRARY?

Over 20 years, although in a number of different roles. I’ve been doing my current job for around three years.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE IN THE LIBRARY?

I’m the Library (and IT) Director.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT WORKING IN THE LIBRARY?

Providing high quality spaces, resources and services which really make a positive difference to student learning.

WHICH BOOKS IN THE LIBRARY DO YOU FIND MOST INTERESTING?

All of them (of course!), but I have soft spot for architecture books.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN GREENWICH TO EAT/HAVE LUNCH?

Tei Won Mein noodle bar for lunch and I also really liked Café Sol for Mexican food and cocktails with friends, before it sadly closed down.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

Play and watch football, and spending time with friends and family.

FAVOURITE BOOK, MUSIC AND FILM?

Book – I like historical fiction, so books from authors such as Hilary Mantel, Conn Iggulden, Simon Scarrow and Bernard Cornwell. Music – all sorts ranging from the 1980’s onwards. I recently saw The Cure live at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam. They were fantastic! Film – Pulp Fiction.

WHERE IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU LIKE TO VISIT?

I’ve travelled a fair amount and I’d like to visit lots more places, but I’d particularly like to stay in a log cabin in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, USA. 

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERHUMAN POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

To fly. Total freedom.

HAVE YOU VISITED THE CUTTY SARK, NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM, ROYAL OBSERVATORY AND QUEEN’S HOUSE?

Yes, particularly when my children were small – they loved the Museum and Observatory. We also spent many a Sunday morning walking around Greenwich Park, feeding the ducks and visiting the playground. The Painted Hall and Chapel are both stunning spaces to visit as well.