Esther Scholten, director of the Best Dutch Books Foundation between 2015 and 2026, will posthumously receive De Kapitaal for her indispensable contribution to Dutch book care.
Starting in 2024, the De Best Verzorgde Boeken (The Best Dutch Book Designs) foundation will annually present ‘De Kapitaal’—an award honoring an individual, institution, or initiative for a distinctive contribution to the design and production of Dutch books.
Lynchpin in a large network
The fact that Esther Scholten is the third recipient of ‘De Kapitaal’—awarded to her posthumously—is as fitting as it is saddening. On July 28, 2026, the director of the De Best Verzorgde Boeken foundation passed away, quite unexpectedly, from cardiac arrest. Her death came as a shock to many, who admired her not only for her unwavering dedication and professionalism but also for her warmth and her unique ability to bring people together. As the linchpin of an extensive network, Scholten had managed ‘De Best Verzorgde Boeken’ since 2015. With great flair and vision, she oversaw the annual cycle that culminates in the selection of 33 books, accompanied by a catalogue, an exhibition, and an event at the Stedelijk Museum. All of this serves to highlight and celebrate the synergy between exceptional design, visionary commissioning, and high-quality lithography, printing, and binding.
Renewal and rejuvenation
Scholten never operated on autopilot; she listened carefully to the sentiments within the professional community and placed great value on bringing in younger voices. In 2016, she introduced a student jury that, alongside the professional jury, was invited to present a selection of chosen books. This ensured that the perspectives of the up-and-coming generation were given attention, while also serving to inspire and foster engagement. As a tribute to her illustrious predecessor, 2016 also saw the launch of Bookmaking Uncovered: The Just Enschedé Salon, a program of presentations, lectures, and discussions aimed at sharing knowledge within the graphic and cultural sectors. This exchange of knowledge extended well beyond national borders through the traveling exhibitions of ‘De Best Verzorgde Boeken’, with showcases held in countries such as China and Korea.
De Kapitaal
In 2024, De Best Verzorgde Boeken launched a new award, De Kapitaal, intended for an individual, institution, or initiative that has made a distinctive contribution to the field of book design and production in the Netherlands. After being awarded to designer Joost Grootens in 2024 and bookbinder Herman van Waarden in 2025, the honor now – undeniably – points toward someone who, both in the spotlight and behind the scenes, drew attention to, and amplified the appreciation for, excellent book design. In doing so, she succeeded in engaging and inspiring a great many professionals within the field. No challenge was too daunting, and no problem went unsolved. Esther Scholten was truly invaluable, and the book industry remains deeply indebted to her.
Announcement
The announcement and presentation to her husband will take place on Friday, November 6, prior to the opening of the exhibition The Best Dutch Book Designs 2025 at the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. The award consists of a ceramic sculpture, designed by the design duo Team Thursday, accompanied by a certificate. An article about Esther Scholten will be featured in the exhibition catalogue.
The Best Dutch Book Designs (De Best Verzorgde Boeken) and De Kapitaal are made possible in part by the ASF Charitable Fund (ASF Goede Doelen Fonds), Pictoright Fund, Igepa Nederland, Van Heek Textiles, and the Jaap Harten Fund. The Association of Dutch Designers (Beroepsorganisatie Nederlandse Ontwerpers) serves as a communications partner.
