The Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature received a special donation of books from the family of the late Ed Young (1931-2023), a Caldecott Medal-winning children’s book author and illustrator. “Our father believed deeply in ensuring his work continues to be accessible to all,” Antonia Young, daughter of Ed Young, said. The donation includes 21 of Young’s books from his personal collection, many of which he signed.
Creator of more than 100 children’s books, Young’s use of collage, pencil and charcoal and other media enhanced his original works and interpretation of classic Chinese folktales, among other subjects. Young was also known for his playfulness and innovation of the picture book format. “I am grateful and honored that Young’s family chose to reach out to us. This is a really special collection that will enable us to share his legacy with the community and researchers,” Fiona Hartley-Kroeger, curator of the Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature said. The Baldwin Library is one of the largest collections of children’s books in the world, with more than 120,000 books and periodicals published in the United States and Great Britain from the mid-1600s to present day. The Library also has small holdings manuscript collections, original artwork, and assorted ephemera such as board games, puzzles, and toys.
Young’s daughter emphasized that “given the Baldwin Library’s dedication to children’s literature and research…we’re honored to contribute to the Baldwin Library in this way.”
To learn more about Ed Young, visit his website, Publishers Weekly Obituary and New York Time’s Obituary.
