The Yale Medical Historical Library, located in New Haven, Connecticut, is a renowned repository of medical history, housing an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts. Established in 1941, the library has grown to become one of the largest and most comprehensive medical history libraries in the world. With a collection spanning over 500 years of medical history, the library provides a unique resource for researchers, scholars, and medical professionals to explore the evolution of medicine and its impact on society.
History and Development
The Yale Medical Historical Library was founded through the efforts of several key individuals, including Dr. John F. Fulton, a prominent medical historian and bibliophile. Fulton’s vision for a medical history library was realized with the support of the Yale University School of Medicine and the Yale University Library. Over the years, the library has undergone significant expansion, with notable additions including the acquisition of the Edward Clark Streeter Collection of Rare Medical Books in 1950. This collection, comprising over 7,000 volumes, significantly enhanced the library’s holdings and solidified its position as a leading medical history resource.
Collection Highlights
The Yale Medical Historical Library’s collection is diverse and extensive, featuring a wide range of materials, including rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and artifacts. Some notable highlights include:
- A 15th-century manuscript of the Canon of Medicine by Ibn Sina (Avicenna)
- A first edition of William Harvey’s De Motu Cordis (1628)
- A collection of over 1,000 medical and scientific instruments, including a 19th-century apothecary shop and a set of surgical instruments used by Dr. Harvey Cushing
- An extensive archive of medical photographs, including the papers of Dr. Harvey Cushing and the Yale Medical School Photograph Collection
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Rare Books | over 50,000 volumes |
| Manuscripts | over 1,500 items |
| Photographs | over 10,000 images |
| Artifacts | over 1,000 items |
Research and Education
The Yale Medical Historical Library is an active center for research and education, offering a range of programs and services to support scholars, students, and medical professionals. The library’s expert staff provides guidance and support for research projects, and the library’s reading room is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for studying and consulting the collection. The library also hosts regular exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, showcasing its collections and exploring topics in medical history.
Digitization and Online Resources
In recent years, the Yale Medical Historical Library has made significant efforts to digitize its collections and make them available online. The library’s website provides access to a range of digital resources, including:
- Digital versions of rare books and manuscripts
- Online exhibitions and virtual tours
- Digitized photographs and images
- Research guides and bibliographies
What are the library's hours of operation?
+The Yale Medical Historical Library is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and is closed on weekends and holidays. Researchers are advised to contact the library in advance to confirm hours and make arrangements for access to the collection.
Can I access the library's collections online?
+Yes, the Yale Medical Historical Library provides online access to many of its collections, including digital versions of rare books and manuscripts, online exhibitions, and digitized photographs and images. Researchers can explore the library's online resources through its website.
In conclusion, the Yale Medical Historical Library is a unique and valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of medicine. With its extensive collections, expert staff, and commitment to research and education, the library provides a rich and rewarding experience for scholars, students, and medical professionals alike.
