Long Citation (for publication and press release)
The wide-ranging work of David Bell has significantly expanded our knowledge of medieval and early modern intellectual history, especially monastic intellectual history. He has, moreover, been both a pioneer and leader through his contributions to bibliographical research, manuscript studies (including critical editions of Latin texts), the history of libraries, and the learning and literacy of medieval nuns. He has established himself as an international authority through his studies of the Cistercian monastic order. His publications in this field cover the entire history of the order, and have touched on a broad range of people and a wide range of topics.

Short Citation (to be read at the Induction Ceremony)
The wide-ranging work of David Bell has significantly expanded our knowledge of medieval and early modern intellectual history, especially monastic intellectual history. He has, moreover, been both a pioneer and leader through his contributions to bibliographical research, manuscript studies, the history of libraries, and the learning and literacy of medieval nuns.