Special Collections and University Archives in the Library of the Health Sciences at the University of Illinois Chicago houses rare books and archives, including pre-fire Chicago imprints (prior to 1871) related to the history of the health sciences. The department also houses the records of the University Archives related to the health science colleges. Many of the historical materials focus on the development of the health sciences in Chicago and the Midwest. The Special Collections and University Archives is open to the public and provides reference, photocopying, and photographic reproduction services.

Holdings:

The strengths of Special Collections and University Archives are neurology, urology, dermatology, and the history of medicine, including collections of early anatomies, herbals, pharmacopeias, and formularies. There are over 23,000 volumes of pre-1930 monographs and pre-1900 journals and over 5,000 linear feet of archival collections, in addition to photographs, slides, and artifacts.

We hold records from the pre-UIC health colleges, including the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Chicago and the Chicago College of Pharmacy. Other archival collections include the Cook County School of Nursing records, the Illinois Occupational Therapy Association records, the Horizon Hospice records, and the Abraham Low/Recovery International collections.

Subject Strengths:

History of Anatomy; History of Botany; History of Dentistry; History of Dermatology; History of Health Regulation; History of Homeopathy; History of Hospitals; History of Medical Education; History of Medicine; History of Military/Naval Medicine; History of Neurology; History of Nursing; History of Pharmacology and Pharmacy; History of Psychiatry; History of Surgery; History of Urology; History of the Allied Health Sciences; History of the Practice of Medicine; Local History

Last Updated:

30 Mar 2023