Danielle Clarke — 23 August 2026

I was privileged to meet Wal during my tenure as Emmerson Fellow at the State Library earlier this year. I was hugely impressed by his razor sharp intellect and memory, and his wide-ranging knowledge of early modern books. But more than that, his curiosity and openness to new ideas was wonderful. I was fortunate to benefit from his knowledge, his generosity and his hospitality -- it was an honour to meet him.My sincere condolences to Joan on the passing of her beloved husband.