It was another day of fascinating talks on a wide variety of subjects. By now I am starting to see familiar faces attending events and having a quick chat to some people before the sessions starts. I usually don’t stay around after as I am off to the next event . The weather has been cool (14 degrees) but not much rain, so at least I arrive dry .

The John Emmerson Collection at State Library Victoria
Richard Overell and Des Cowley. In 2015, the John Emmerson collection, comprising over 5,000 early English books, with particular emphasis on the English Civil War, was donated to the State Library of Victoria. In this session, they looked at some of the highlights of the Emmerson Collection.

Sir Redmond Barry: The Bibliophile Melbourne Law School Library
Carole Hinchcliff and Wallace Kirsop spoke about Sir Redmond Barry, the bibliophile, his style of book collecting as reflected in his personal library, and the ongoing project to re-create Barry’s library. They examined Barry’s influence on developing the first library collection at The University of Melbourne. A selection of Barry’s writings and books associated with Barry was displayed.

The Birdman and the Museum
Museums Victoria
Belinda Borg, Nik McGrath, Gemma Steele
This show-and-tell offered a unique insight into the relationship between Museums Victoria and the renowned ornithologist and publisher, John Gould, through rarely seen items from the library and archives. Museums Victoria’s librarians and archivists explored historical letters, lists, accounts ledgers and rare books to better understand the relationship between these two scientists.
This show-and-tell offered a unique insight into the relationship between the museum’s first director, Sir Frederick McCoy, and the renowned ornithologist and publisher, John Gould, through rarely seen items from the library and archives.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Juvenile Books on War
Michael O’Brien at Tonic House
This talk explored and uncovered the surprising scope of books on war for children and juveniles. Presenting examples from the Royal United Services Institute of Victoria collection, this engaging discussion showcased family help material, picture books, tales of derring-do, and propaganda, and reflected on the realities and misrepresentations of growing up during conflict.