Robert Gavron: 1930-2015

Lord Robert GavronRobert Gavron (Baron Gavron of Highgate) passed away on Saturday 7 February 2015 at the age of 84. As owner and Chairman of The Folio Society since 1982, and as a lifelong, passionate bibliophile and book collector, Bob Gavron had an enduring belief in the intrinsic value and beauty of books. It was his love of the printed word that drove his interest in leading The Folio Society. His desire to make beautifully crafted books available to as many people as possible defined his stewardship of the company for over 30 years. Bob Gavron brought to The Folio Society a wealth of experience garnered from a long and distinguished career in printing and publishing, notably as founder (in 1964) and chairman of the St Ives print group until 1993. He also served as Chairman of the Guardian Media Group from 1997 to 2000. Elevated to the peerage in 1999, Bob Gavron’s passion for the arts went far beyond publishing. He was a director of the Royal Opera House (1992-1998), a trustee of the National Gallery (1994-2001) and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (since 1996), as well as chair of his own charitable trust. Through his long association with The Folio Society, Bob Gavron shaped an important cultural legacy. His wisdom, humour and leadership will be sorely missed and at this sad time, the thoughts and deepest sympathies of all of us at The Folio Society go out to Lady Gavron, his children, grandchildren and to all his family and friends.