Description

Three Castlebar Bindings: A Story with Digressions is a charming bibliophilic memoir by Éamonn de Búrca, one of Ireland’s leading antiquarian booksellers and the founder of De Búrca Rare Books. Published in 2016 by The DOVS (Dublin Odd Volume Sette), the book was issued as a limited edition of just 75 signed copies, making it highly sought after by collectors of Irish books and fine press publications.

Using three exceptional book bindings associated with Castlebar, County Mayo as his starting point, de Búrca tells the story of how his fascination with rare books began. Central to the narrative is the first antiquarian book he purchased in Castlebar in 1966 while a student at St. Gerald’s College—a copy of Thomas Moore’s History of Ireland—which sparked a lifelong passion for book collecting and eventually led to the establishment of one of the world’s foremost specialist dealers in rare Irish books.

Far more than a study of bookbindings, the volume weaves together a series of engaging reflections on:

• The history and craftsmanship of fine Irish bookbinding
• Rare books and the culture of collecting
• Castlebar’s literary and historical heritage
• Personal memories and anecdotes from the author’s life
• Irish publishing, bibliography, and antiquarian bookselling

The “digressions” of the title are an essential part of the book’s appeal, allowing the author to explore the people, places, and stories that shaped his career while celebrating Ireland’s rich printed heritage. Written with warmth, wit, and deep knowledge, the narrative offers fascinating insights into the world of rare books and the enduring beauty of finely bound volumes.

Elegantly produced with high-quality materials, the book reflects the craftsmanship and attention to detail that have become hallmarks of Éamonn de Búrca’s publishing work. Its scarcity, signed limitation, and distinctive subject matter make it an attractive addition to collections of Irish bibliography, local history, and fine press books.

Ideal for book collectors, bibliophiles, local historians, and readers interested in Irish publishing, bookbinding, and County Mayo’s literary heritage, Three Castlebar Bindings: A Story with Digressions is both a personal memoir and a celebration of the enduring power of books.