My friend and former colleague Christine Penney, who has died aged 81, was the archivist for the University of Birmingham library for 34 years, and head of its special collections (now the Cadbury Research library) from 1990.
A spirited defender of the collections in her charge, Chris fought to ensure adequate standards of security, good conservation practices and a friendly and expert service to users. She introduced information technology wherever it could improve access to collections. Staff training was a priority, and many of those whom Chris encouraged now hold senior research positions in Britain and abroad.
She made an immense contribution to developing special collections at the university. Her dedication and charm enabled the department to move beyond its collection of the private papers of Neville, Joseph and Austen Chamberlain that are at its core. While managing the deposit of the papers of the former prime minister Anthony Eden (Lord Avon), she developed a warm relationship with Lady (Clarissa) Avon. She oversaw the deposit of the Church Missionary Society archive and, using patience and persuasion, acquired the papers of Nöel Coward, the Methodist preacher and writer Leslie Weatherhead, and others.
Born in Pinner, Middlesex, Chris was the daughter of Sidney, a bookseller, and his wife, Phyllis (nee Freeman). With her sister, Barbara, the family moved to Stratford-upon-Avon, where she attended Stratford grammar school for girls.
Chris graduated with an English degree from Bristol University in 1965, then gained a diploma in librarianship from University College London. Subsequently she worked at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. In 1971 she joined the staff at University of Birmingham Library as university archivist.
Alongside her work there, Chris was a longstanding secretary of the Jane Austen Society, worked closely with Hereford Cathedral library, was honorary consultant to Worcester and Lichfield Cathedral libraries and was a life member of the court of governors of Birmingham University.
On retiring, she worked tirelessly as the Hurd librarian at Hartlebury Castle in Worcestershire. There she used her professional zeal in pressing for higher standards and additional funding.
Chris was a well-loved, loyal and supportive friend and colleague. After her cancer diagnosis six years ago she remained unfailingly positive, cheerfully sticking to her philosophy of taking “one day at a time”.
Generations of researchers have, and will continue to benefit from, the battles she fought to ensure preserved original sources are secure and accessible.
Barbara survives her.
