The Ruth Lilly Medical Library’s History of Medicine Collection is committed to supporting the research, learning, and educational success of Indiana University students, faculty, and community members by collecting, preserving, interpreting, and providing access to unique materials documenting the history of medicine; medical education, training, research, and practice; and health and disease treatment and prevention in the state of Indiana and beyond within the global context of the Western medical tradition.

The History of Medicine Collection includes, but is not limited to, the records and papers of Indiana University School of Medicine faculty and alumni, researchers, professional organizations, advocates, and practitioners in the medical and health care professions; a significant number of medical instruments and other artifacts; and rare and early print books, periodicals, and other publications.