Richard de Bury Libri

"Will always hold an honorable place for bibliophiles." — The University of Chicago Press One of the earliest treatises on the value of preserving neglected manuscripts, building a library, and book collecting, Richard De Bury's The Philobiblon was written in 1345 and circulated widely in manuscript form for over a century. The first printed edition appeared in Cologne in 1473, and several others soon followed as the invention of the printing press spread throughout the late Medieval world. The chapter titles of this legendary work reflect its nature, combining the author's love for and commitment to the importance of books and the knowledge they contain with thoughts on collecting them, lending them, teaching with them, and simply enjoying them: "That the Treasure of Wisdom is chiefly contained in books," "What we are to think of the price in the buying of books," "Who ought to be special lovers of books," and "Of the manner of lending all our books to students." The Prologue ends with the following thought: "And this treatise (divided into twenty chapters) will clear the love we have had for books from the charge of excess, will expound the purpose of our intense devotion, and will narrate more clearly than light all the circumstances of our undertaking. And because it principally treats of the love of books, we have chose after the fashion of the ancient Romans fondly to name it by a Greek word, Philobiblon."This volume offers modern bibliophiles a splendid edition of one of the first books ever to study, define, and, above all, praise their passion: the all-encompassing love of books. $c --From publisher's description

The book is a facsimile reprint of an original antiquarian work, highlighting its cultural significance. It may exhibit imperfections typical of older texts, such as marks and notations. The reprint aims to preserve and promote the literary heritage, ensuring accessibility through high-quality modern editions that remain faithful to the original.

Focusing on the joys and significance of reading, Richard de Bury's 1345 treatise passionately explores various themes such as the acquisition and care of books, their educational role, and the pleasures of book collecting. Divided into twenty chapters, it offers a rich insight into medieval book culture and intellectual life. This work serves as a timeless tribute to the enduring love of books, highlighting the responsibilities of book owners. The English translation by E. C. Thomas in 1861 makes this historical perspective accessible to modern readers.