Obituary: Ian Jobes

Photo kindly shared by Ian’s friend and colleague John Hilton. Ian as pictured in November 2008 when the ‘new’ SJL was inaugurated.

Words from colleagues from Libraries, Museums and Galleries.

We are saddened to share the news that our friend and colleague, Ian Jobes, passed away suddenly in April 2021.

Ian was the Evening Supervisor in the Sydney Jones Library and had been a stalwart member of the library’s Customer Services team since January 1999. A consummate professional; he was known as a ‘gentle giant’, a man who valued detail and a patient and supportive teacher.

He had a keen interest in learning technologies and took pride in sharing his knowledge with colleagues. His friend Dan Slattery commented: whether it was the merits of classic Doctor Who or 10 Things You Never Knew You Could Do with Sierra (library system), he was always happy to show the wide range of his knowledge without being arrogant about it.’

Alongside his work at the University of Liverpool, Ian was also a much-loved member of the neighbouring Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts library team.  Outside of the libraries, Ian was able to let his hair down both figuratively and literally. He was a lifelong sci-fi fan and is credited with introducing several of the team to the joys of Comic Con. He also enjoyed the annual Steampunk festival in Lincoln, and a yearly catch up with his university friends.

His knowledge, humility and warm sense of humour will be deeply missed by us all. Our thoughts are with Ian’s family and friends during this time.

A funeral will take place at 9:30am on Monday 17th May at St Helens Crematorium. Due to COVID restrictions attendees will be limited. Donations can be made in Ian’s name to the Landmark Trust

Colleagues are welcome to share their own messages of condolence and memories of Ian here: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/eUzz99ix a copy will be shared with his family.