Richard de Bury

Richard de Bury, born on January twenty-fourth, 1287, was a distinguished English priest and a notable figure in the realms of education and literature. Known also as Richard Aungerville, he served not only as a bishop but also as a judge and politician, leaving a significant mark on the ecclesiastical and civic life of his time.

A passionate advocate for learning, de Bury was one of the earliest English collectors of books, demonstrating a profound appreciation for literature and knowledge. His dedication to the pursuit of learning is encapsulated in his seminal work, the Philobiblon, which he completed shortly before his death in 1345. This treatise aimed to inspire the clergy to embrace the love of books and the importance of education.

The Philobiblon is particularly noteworthy for its in-depth discussion of librarianship, making it one of the earliest texts to address this field comprehensively. Although it was not published until 1473, its influence has endured, with the work being reprinted regularly in every century since its completion.