Veterinary bibliographer honoured by RCVS Trust Library

The RCVS Trust Board has appointed Mr Norman Comben, veterinary surgeon and bibliographer of historical veterinary literature, as Honorary Adviser to the Library's Historical Collection.

Dr Lydia Brown, Acting Chair of the Trust, said, "Norman Comben has made an invaluable contribution to the conservation and preservation of our historical collection.

"His expert advice and support over the past twelve months has been key to the success of our Adopt-a-Book Appeal which to date has raised over £7,000 for our conservation programme. We are delighted to recognise his contribution by naming him Honorary Adviser."

RCVS Trust Librarian David Potter added, "Norman's knowledge of the veterinary literature from the 15th to the 19th century is unrivalled. He has freely provided invaluable bibliographic and historical advice on many aspects of the RCVS Trust Library's historical collection.

"This has included identifying the completeness or otherwise of many hundreds of volumes and advising on conservation and binding procedures, in order to preserve the books in as near as possible their original state. He has also provided useful contacts in the general antiquarian book field."

On hearing the news of his appointment Mr Comben said, "The Trust Library holds one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of early books and pamphlets on farriery and the veterinary art in the English speaking world. The collection has been formed mainly by generous donations and bequests throughout the last one-and-a-half centuries.

"Many of the benefactors are names familiar to veterinary historians; particularly prominent are John Field, George Fleming, Henry Gray and Sir Frederick Hobday, amongst numerous others. The collection was long overdue a complete reassessment, valuation and general overhaul. It has been both fascinating and rewarding to work with the Librarian on this project during the past twelve months."