There will be very few PLA members who do not have vivid memories of David Chambers, for many years the indisputable 'head honcho' at the Private Libraries Association.
Here is David in about 1970 at his Cuckoo Hill Press, named after the road in Pinner where he lived.
As far as the Private Libraries Association is concerned, as Philip Ward gradually withdrew David stepped up, and there will be very few members of the Association unaffected in some way by David Chambers' influence.
With wonderful contributions (including from David's children), the present indefatigable editor of the Private Library (David Butcher), has produced a truly memorable issue of Private Library in tribute to David Chambers.
It will be on its way to all PLA members very soon.
Additional note:
The David Chambers memorial issue is now out.
Please find the details HERE
Spencer Stuart: an update Members will remember that in early May 2026, Spencer Stuart spoke to us on Zoom about the book-related services he offers, and later in May there was a follow-up in-person meeting at Bryars & Bryars (in Cecil Court, London) by kind invitation of Tim Bryars. Spencer sums up his approach: "From examining the technological and economic changes to the book trade and auction arena, and comparing with the current experience for collectors actively building their libraries, I can demonstrate that the passion for collecting is alive and well, but (more than a quarter of the way into the Century) traditional models for developing collections, both privately and institutionally, are no longer common practice. These changes have impacted emerging collectors concerning how they set out and define their collecting focus, as well as mature collectors looking to plan the future of their existing collections. In my writings, I explore many topics that are current in the Wold of Collecting, and I invite you to stay in touch with current developments, and contact me directly with any inquiries about how I might help you with any aspects of your collection. I give you a link below to my current book, and at the foot of that page you will find my contact details." Link to order Spencer's book: https://spencerwstuart.ca/book/ Bryar & Bryar's Bookshop in Cecil Court where Spencer Stuart's talk took place
A splendid telling of the long story about the bindings of books
Learn How To Make A Sketchbook Tutor: Sam Treadaway When: Saturday 20th June, 2026, 10am-3pm Where: The Bookery, 21 High Street, Crediton, Devon, EX17 3AH Full fee: £70.00 (Benefit/Low Wage £60.00) To book, click: HERE
Small Presses In the Rocky Mountains West By Richard L Hardesty
Tracing Frankenstein: Editions, Performances, and Inspired Fictions By Mattias Tornquist
21st Century Collecting A talk for members of the Private Libraries Association and anyone else interested in books and book collecting Spencer W Stuart shares the low-down on what is happening in the book-collecting world in an online talk at 6pm (BST) on Tuesday 12th May 2026