Ian Baird: A life well lived
UVic Archives, 2008-007-1.2-1.2.2
by: Shailoo Bedi, Executive Director, Learning and Teaching Support and Innovation
It is with deep sadness that we say goodbye to Ian Baird, who passed suddenly on October 28, 2024, at 77. Born in Victoria and raised in his beloved home in Oak Bay on Oliver Street, Ian stayed close to home most of his life attending Monterey Elementary, Glenlyon School, Oak Bay High, and the University of Victoria where he earned a Bachelor of Arts. As an adult learner in his 30s, Ian earned a Master of Library of Science at the University of Western Ontario.
Ian enjoyed his professional career at UVic Libraries, beginning as a library assistant and later as a reference librarian. For the majority of his career, he served as Supervisor of Microform, a role that reflected his meticulous attention to detail and passion for preserving knowledge.
A lifelong lover of books and an avid collector, Ian founded Empire Books, specializing in rare first editions, particularly in trains and railways. His fascination with trains included authoring several books, and the creation of model trains and railways, which he meticulously crafted in his backyard and basement. Ian’s travels, often inspired by railways and the British Empire, took him across Canada, the Commonwealth, and to places like India, where he explored historic railway lines.
Quick with a joke, Ian found common ground with all and enlivened many a get-together. One of my favorite memories of Ian took place before we even worked together. I had called him for a reference for a library assistant. Without missing a beat, he asked, "Have you met this person?" I replied, "Yes, I interviewed them." He quipped back, "Well then, what else do you need to know?" His humor, coupled with his practical approach to life, made interactions with him unforgettable and always filled with laughter.