FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Newburyport Public Library to Host Special Exhibition Honoring Native Son and Celebrated Children’s Author David McPhail
Exhibition of the Rachel Coffin Cutter McPhail Collection to Feature More Than 150 Books and a Special Visit from the Author
NEWBURYPORT, MA — The City of Newburyport and the Newburyport Public Library are pleased to announce a special two-day exhibition celebrating the work of Newburyport native and bestselling children’s author and illustrator David McPhail. The Rachel Coffin Cutter McPhail Collection Exhibition will take place on Friday, November 20, and Saturday, November 21, 2026, in the Library’s program Room at 94 State Street.
The exhibition will showcase a remarkable collection of more than 150 books donated by McPhail to the Newburyport Public Library Archival Center (NPLAC) in the fall of 2024. The books were lovingly collected and preserved by his mother, Rachel Coffin Cutter McPhail, who received one of the first copies of each of her son’s published works, often accompanied by a personal inscription and signature.
For decades, Rachel McPhail carefully safeguarded the collection in a special locked bookcase in the family’s Newburyport home. Her dedication to preserving her son’s work ensured that this unique collection would remain intact for future generations to appreciate.
“This is such a wonderful example of the rich history and remarkable people who have called Newburyport home,” said Mayor Sean Reardon. “David McPhail’s books have brought joy to generations of children and families, and it is incredibly special that his mother took such great care in preserving his work right here in Newburyport. This collection is not only a celebration Of David’s extraordinary career but also a beautiful tribute to the love and pride Of a mother for her son. We are grateful to David and his family for sharing this treasure with our community and to our Library staff for bringing this exhibition to life.”
As part of the exhibition, David McPhail will make a special appearance at the Library on Saturday, November 21, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. During his visit, McPhail will read one of his favorite books from the collection and share personal stories and memories about his mother and the history behind the collection.
The exhibition is part of the Newburyport Public Library Archival Center’s ongoing mission to preserve and share the city’s history. It offers residents and visitors a unique opportunity to explore the work of an accomplished author and illustrator while learning about the personal family connection that made this collection possible.
The City and Library are excited to welcome David McPhail and his family back for this special celebration and encourage residents of all ages to attend.
Event Details
Rachel Coffin Cutter McPhail Collection Exhibition
Location: Newburyport Public Library, Program Room, 94 State Street, Newburyport, MA
Exhibition Hours:
- Friday, November 20, 2026: p.m.
- Saturday, November 21, 2026: 10:00 p.m.
Special Author Visit with David McPhail:
- Saturday, November 21, 2026: p.m.
- Featuring a book reading and personal stories about his mother and the collection.
- The public is invited to attend this special celebration of Newburyport history, family, and children’s
- literature
