The Book Society was founded by Hugh Walpole in 1921 to bring together people from different areas of the book trade. Members include publishers, booksellers, librarians, literary agents and printers, so the dinners provide a unique opportunity for meeting people from all parts of the industry, at all stages of their careers. There are usually eight meetings in a normal year, with the format varying between sit down dinners with guest speakers and larger capacity drinks parties, all of which enable members to bring guests.
Over the past few years, speakers for the dinners have included Charlie Redmayne, James Daunt, Mike Shatzkin, Arnaud Nourry, Jude Kelly, Santiago de la Mora, Ed Vaizey, Perminder Mann, Clare Alexander, Roly Keating, Di Speirs, Sharmaine Lovegrove, Sue Wilkinson, Philip Jones and Dame Julia Cleverdon.
Membership is by election through the Committee. All members are welcome to propose new candidates for future election to the Society. The maximum number of full members permitted is 300, while members who have retired but wish to keep their involvement with the Society have the option to become honorary members. If you would like to apply for honorary membership, please contact the Honorary Secretary.
The website is intended for members only – to inform them of future events, facilitate bookings, and provide networking opportunities. Any questions please contact us.
