UTA Libraries Staff Spotlight: Richard Huntington

Richard Huntington's job at UTA Libraries is about more than just keeping computer systems up and running. It is about problem-solving and helping people. 

Richard is one of the newest team members of Libraries Systems and Technology, joining the staff in July as a new systems administrator. His interest in computers started at a young age. 

"I have always been interested in computers, which started way back in high school in 1981. They had a computer class and had a bunch of TRS 80s in there, which got me interested," Richard said. "I like learning about computers and helping people, which drew me to the field." 

In his role as system administrator, Richard works to manage the network that keeps the library's website running, troubleshooting problems before they happen and finding solutions when problems do pop up. He also works to streamline procedures to make operations run more smoothly. 

"I am good at spotting repeating issues. When I was at Verizon, there were times when we had to repeat a process every day, or we had been doing this over and over for a year," Richard said. "I was like, 'Why? Can we make it so that we don't have to do that over and over? Let's figure out why.'" 

Richard's interest in technology goes beyond his desk at the library. It takes a deep dive into the world of science fiction, from playing video games to getting lost in the stories and characters of "Star Trek," "Star Wars," "Foundation," and "Dr. Who;” Richard's fanboy dedication is reflected in the tattoos on his arm. 

"I love sci-fi, space and time travel. These tattoos (pointing to his arm) are all ships from 'No Man's Sky,' a video game. There is the Tardis from 'Dr. Who,' an alien, the space shuttle, and an astronaut's helmet with a reflection of the galaxy on it," he said. "There are some spots that still need to be finished." 

Along with science fiction, Richard spends time with his eight-year-old dog Rufus, a dachshund, who he got as a rescue. 

"I describe him as chaotic-happy. He loves to meet people," he said. "When they reach down to pet and talk to him, he just barks because he is so happy." 

Richard shared that the Library Systems and Technology Department staff are always ready and willing to assist with any problem. He also encourages staff to visit LST's office in the basement so they can get to know you a little better. 

We at UTA Libraries look forward to seeing how Richard's contribution can make the libraries' impact even more significant in the community. Welcome aboard, Richard, and may you boldly go where no systems administrator has gone before.