Frederic G. Melcher

Frederic Gershom Melcher (April 12, 1879 – March 9, 1963) was an American publisher, bookseller, editor, and a major contributor to the library science field and book industry. He is particularly known for his contributions to the children's book genre, including the Newbery Medal and Caldecott Medal. Melcher was named as one of the most important 100 leaders in the library science field of the 20th century in an American Libraries article and has been described as "the greatest all-round bookman in the English-speaking world". In 1883, the family moved to Newton Center, another Boston suburb.

It was during his time at Estes and Lauriat that he first developed his interest in children's books. He worked to develop the children's collection of the books store with help of Caroline Hewins, a New England librarian who also had interests in developing and promoting children's books. While at Publishers Weekly, Melcher began creating space in the publication and a number of issues dedicated solely to books for children.

Melcher proposed the Caldecott Medal in 1937 to honor children's picture books. Named for British illustrator Randolph Caldecott, the medal is presented annually for the "most distinguished picture book for children".

Melcher was awarded American Library Association Honorary Membership in 1945. A collection of essays about his life was published to commemorate this event and he was awarded a medal from The American Institute of Graphic Arts:

In recognition of his many-sided contributions to the Graphic Arts through 50 years, his patient and judicial sponsorship of worthy causes, international as well as national; his continuing kindly encouragement of young men and women first entering the world of books; and his tireless, accomplished, and successful efforts to make known and to maintain high standards of bookmaking.

Death Melcher died on March 9, 1963, at the age of 83, and his ashes were scattered at the family vacation home in Cape Cod.