Adopt-a-book Campaign Heading Towards the 17K Mark
The latest book to be restored under the scheme is a nineteenth century edition of Every man his own farrier, by F Clater, which has been restored thanks to veterinary surgeon Fiona Dalzell.
“I have always loved books, and especially old books, but I got inspired by the Adopt a Book scheme when I came to the RCVS for a meeting of the Veterinary History Society,” says Fiona. These editions, she says, are “works of art in their own right,” and it has given her a “huge amount of pleasure to know that you can do so much just from a small donation.”
RCVS Trust Director Cherry Bushell explains the idea behind a campaign which, since its inception six years ago, has raised £16, 851, and funded the restoration of 139 volumes:
“When you think of ‘adoption’, you may more readily recall the rescue animals treated in veterinary practices than old books,” she says. “However, these old books also need your help – and are an important part of the veterinary heritage that the Trust seeks to preserve.”
Restoring a book can cost between £25 and £250, and adopted books carry a book-plate naming their benefactor. They can also be dedicated ‘in memoriam’.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
