Library of Pamela Gilbert Collection
Pamela Gilbert (1932–2015) was the head of the Entomology Library and latterly Deputy Head of Library Services, at Natural History Museum, London. During her long and fruitful career at the Museum (1951–1992) she had gained a reputation as an ‘entomologists’ librarian’, the ‘doyenne of Lepidoptera librarians’. She also made important contributions to the History of Entomology, helping produce a series of invaluable reference works in the field.
Her best known publication is the self-described ‘necrology of entomology’ - 'A Compendium of the Biographical Literature on Deceased Entomologists' (1978) and its companion volume 'A Source Book for Biographical Literature on Entomologists' (2007).
Pam also took a great interest in manuscript, artwork and other historical material and produced works such as 'Butterfly Collectors and Painters. Four centuries of colour plates from The Library Collections of the Natural History Museum London' (2000), and 'John Abbot: Birds, Butterflies and Other Wonders' (1998). She also co-authored 'A Catalogue of Manuscripts in the Entomology Library of the Natural History Museum, London' (1996) and contributed to many other works.
Many of the books in the collection are association and presentation copies inscribed to her by publishers, authors and illustrators.