We are delighted that our Director Toby Simpson, will be awarded an OBE in this year’s New Years Honours. This prestigious award recognises his contribution to Holocaust memory through his leadership of the Library.
Toby has led the Library since 2019, during which time he has overseen the transformation of this unique collection and engagement with the archive from a massive global audience. He joined The Wiener Holocaust Library in 2011, setting up a new programme of exhibitions, tours and events. Since that time, the Library’s audiences, activities and impact have steadily increased and it is now more widely recognised than ever as a world leader in Holocaust research, education and remembrance.
Reflecting on the honour, Dr Simpson said: “The Wiener Holocaust Library has a unique and astonishing history, powerful collections and a vital mission. It has been the privilege of my life to help make our holdings as accessible as possible, along with amazing colleagues who deserve most credit. The need for a trusted, independent repository of evidence of the Shoah is clear against a background of resurgent antisemitism and misinformation. This honour is therefore very special for me personally. My hope is that national recognition will play a small part in making the Wiener still better known and cherished.”
