Wellcome Library

Wellcome Library is one of the world's leading libraries dedicated to the history of medicine and the medical humanities. Located in London, England, it is part of the Wellcome Trust, a global charitable foundation that supports researchers to take on big health challenges, campaign for better science, and help everyone get involved with science and health research. The library holds a vast collection of books, manuscripts, archives, films, and pictures on the history of medicine from the earliest times to the present day.

Collections

The Wellcome Library's collections encompass a wide range of materials, including:

• Books and Journals: The library holds an extensive collection of printed works, including rare books and modern publications related to the history of medicine and health.
• Manuscripts and Archives: The library's manuscript collections include personal papers of notable scientists and physicians, as well as records of hospitals, professional organizations, and societies.
• Visual Collections: The library possesses a significant collection of paintings, prints, drawings, and photographs, offering visual perspectives on the history of medicine, health, and disease.
• Digital Collections: The Wellcome Library has been a pioneer in digitizing its collections, making thousands of its items available online for researchers and the public worldwide.

Services

The Wellcome Library offers a range of services to support research and learning. These include:

• Access to Collections: The library provides access to its physical and digital collections through its reading rooms and online platforms.
• Research Support: The library offers guidance and support for researchers, including help with finding and using resources.
• Public Engagement: The library organizes exhibitions, events, and workshops to engage the public with the history of medicine and medical humanities.

History

The Wellcome Library was founded in the early 20th century by Sir Henry Wellcome, a pharmacist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Wellcome's interest in the history of medicine led him to collect books, manuscripts, and objects on a grand scale. After his death, the Wellcome Trust was established to manage his collection and promote the public understanding of science. Over the years, the library has grown in size and scope, becoming a world-renowned resource for the study of the history of health and medicine.

Access

The Wellcome Library is located within the Wellcome Collection building on Euston Road, London. It is open to the public and provides free access to its collections for research and study. Visitors can also access a wide range of digital resources through the library's website.

See Also

• History of Medicine
• Medical Humanities
• Wellcome Trust
• Henry Wellcome