The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library, commonly referred to as the Cushing Library, is a premier medical library located at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. As one of the largest and most comprehensive medical libraries in the world, it serves as a vital resource for the Yale School of Medicine, Yale-New Haven Hospital, and the broader medical community. The library is named after Harvey Cushing, a renowned American neurosurgeon and Yale alumnus, who made significant contributions to the field of medicine.
History and Architecture
The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library was established in 1941, with the merger of the Yale Medical Library and the Harvey Cushing Collection. The library’s current building, designed by architect Paul Rudolph, was completed in 1965 and features a unique, modernist design that has become an iconic landmark on the Yale campus. The building’s striking architecture, which incorporates a series of interlocking cylinders, provides a functional and visually striking space for research, study, and collaboration.
Collections and Resources
The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library is home to an extensive collection of medical literature, including over 400,000 volumes, 4,000 journals, and a vast array of digital resources. The library’s collections encompass a wide range of medical specialties, including anatomy, biochemistry, epidemiology, and pharmacology, among others. The library also maintains a number of special collections, such as the Historical Library, which features rare and historic medical texts, including works by prominent medical figures like Harvey Cushing and William Osler.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Print Volumes | 400,000+ |
| Journal Subscriptions | 4,000+ |
| Digital Resources | 10,000+ |
Services and Support
The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library offers a range of services and support to facilitate research, learning, and patient care. These services include expert research assistance, instructional programs, and technological support, as well as access to specialized resources like the library’s Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education teams. The library also provides a variety of study spaces, including quiet areas, group study rooms, and a 24-hour reading room, to accommodate the diverse needs of its users.
Technology and Innovation
The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library is committed to leveraging technology to enhance research, learning, and patient care. The library offers a range of digital tools and resources, including online databases, e-journals, and digital repositories, as well as specialized software and equipment, such as 3D printing and virtual reality technologies. The library’s Biomedical Informatics team provides expert support for data management, analysis, and visualization, helping researchers to extract insights and meaning from complex data sets.
- Digital repositories and online databases
- E-journals and online publications
- 3D printing and virtual reality technologies
- Data management and analysis software
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with varying hours for different services and facilities. Please check the library’s website for the most up-to-date information on hours and availability.
Can I access the library’s resources from off campus?
+Yes, the Cushing/Whitney Medical Library provides remote access to its digital resources and databases for authorized users, including Yale faculty, students, and staff. Please visit the library’s website for more information on remote access and authentication procedures.
