Tom Conroy

June 16, 1952 – November 11, 2025

Tom Conroy passed away this morning in his home in Berkeley, CA. Tom dedicated his adult life to the craft and history of bookbinding. His research produced books, articles, and essays regarding binding tool identification, structural considerations, and design history. In addition, Tom taught various historic binding styles, knife sharpening, and tool modification. His book, Bookbinders' Finishing Tool Makers 1780-1965, published by Oak Knoll in 2002, was followed by contributions to many of the Suave Mechanicals titles from The Legacy Press.

Tom was a crusty autodidact who could keep talking for hours; filling in information far beyond most of his audience’s ability to appreciate.

Tom left behind his tools, books, and papers.

Obituary of his life and achievements see the Berkeleyside article written by his neighbour, Alan Bernheimer https://www.berkeleyside.org/2025/11/21/tom-conroy-obituary 

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