David Walsh, the founder of the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) in Hobart, has opened a private library called the Phrontistery, housing 4,000 rare books and manuscripts. The collection includes a first edition of Shakespeare's plays, known as the First Folio, and the personal library of musician David Bowie.
Rare Books and Manuscripts
The Phrontistery, which means 'a place for thought' in Greek, is located in a converted 19th-century warehouse near Mona. Walsh's collection spans centuries and includes works by John Milton, Isaac Newton, and Charles Darwin. Among the highlights are a 1623 First Folio of Shakespeare's plays, one of only 235 known copies, and Bowie's personal library, which contains over 1,000 books on art, music, and literature.
Access and Purpose
The library is open to the public by appointment only, with a focus on researchers and scholars. Walsh described the Phrontistery as a 'cabinet of curiosities' and a space for deep thinking. 'I wanted to create a place where people can come and immerse themselves in the history of ideas,' he said. 'These books are not just objects; they are portals to other worlds.'
Bowie's Library
The acquisition of Bowie's library in 2019 added a contemporary dimension to the collection. The books, which include annotated copies of works by George Orwell and Angela Carter, offer insight into Bowie's creative process. Walsh noted that Bowie's library 'reflects his insatiable curiosity and his ability to synthesize disparate ideas.'
Preservation and Legacy
The Phrontistery is climate-controlled to preserve the fragile volumes. Walsh has also established a foundation to support the library's conservation and to fund research fellowships. 'The Phrontistery is not just a personal indulgence,' he said. 'It is a gift to the world, a place where knowledge can be preserved and shared.'
