What the Central Medical Library is
The Central Medical Library in Warsaw (Biblioteka Główna Warszawskiego Uniwersytetu Medycznego, BGWUM) is a major institution for medical knowledge, history, and research. Located near the Medical University of Warsaw, it serves medical students, academics, professionals, and visitors interested in Poland’s medical and scientific history. Its collections, facilities, and digital resources support research and study, while its connection with the Museum of the History of Medicine at WUM gives it a role in preserving medical heritage (Medical University of Warsaw, bg.wum.edu.pl).
History
Medical education in Warsaw dates back to 1809, when the Academic Department of Medicine was founded. It later became part of the Royal University of Warsaw in 1816 (Medical University of Warsaw).
The November Uprising (1830–1831) was followed by a 26-year closure of universities by Russian authorities. Medical education was reestablished with the Imperial-Royal Academy of Medicine and Surgery in 1857, before further disruption after the January Uprising of 1863. Medical scholarship continued through these upheavals (Medical University of Warsaw).
The Central Medical Library was established to support the growing needs of medical education and research. It became a repository for Polish and international medical literature, rare manuscripts, and archival materials. During World War II, library staff and academics worked to safeguard valuable collections. The library’s post-war restoration accompanied the revival of Poland’s academic and medical infrastructure (Museum of the History of Medicine at WUM).
Today, the library collaborates with the Museum of the History of Medicine and the Polish Society for the History of Medical Sciences (PSHMS, bibliotekanauki.pl).
What to see
Architecture and facilities
The library is housed in a building that combines early 20th-century design with modern expansions. The original structure was designed by Jan Heurich the younger in 1914 and funded by Eugenia Kierbedziowa (whiteMAD). Recent renovations added nearly 3,000 square meters of space, including glass-roofed courtyards and contemporary reading areas. The building’s location in a former Ujazdów Hospital pavilion connects it with Warsaw’s medical heritage (bibliotekanauki.pl).
The design emphasizes functionality, natural light, and open spaces. Facilities include quiet reading rooms, group workspaces, and specialized rooms for postgraduate and doctoral students. The building also has high-speed Wi-Fi, computer stations, digital catalogs, and online resources.
Collections and exhibitions
The library holds over 1.5 million volumes, including books, periodicals, and doctoral theses from the Medical University of Warsaw and other institutions. Its holdings cover medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied sciences, with Polish and international medical journals (cambridge.org).
Its rare books and manuscripts date from the 16th to 19th centuries. The collections also include personal papers of renowned Polish physicians and archival records from Warsaw’s medical institutions (bibliotekanauki.pl). Reflecting historical academic connections, the library holds Russian medical periodicals and continues to acquire resources for comparative and international research (cambridge.org).
Visitors can access electronic journals, e-books, and medical databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (biblioteka.wum.edu.pl).
The Museum of the History of Medicine at WUM is integrated within the library. It displays artifacts, instruments, and documents tracing the development of medical practice in Poland (Museum of the History of Medicine at WUM). Regular exhibitions and events feature rare medical texts, historical instruments, and Poland’s medical achievements; the library also hosts lectures and academic conferences.
Practical visiting information
Location and transport
- Address ul. Koszykowa 78, 02-008 Warszawa, Poland
- Public transport The library is accessible by tram, bus, and metro. The nearest station is Politechnika. Parking is limited, so public transport is recommended (HikersBay).
Opening hours
- Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
- Saturday 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
- Sunday and holidays Closed
Hours may vary during academic breaks or special events. Check the official website for current information and holiday schedules.
Admission, tours, and photography
- Admission Free for all visitors. Registration with valid ID may be required to access certain collections.
- Special areas Some reading rooms and archival materials require prior arrangement.
- Guided tours Group tours can be arranged in advance. Self-guided brochures and informational materials are available.
- Language Most staff speak English and can assist international visitors.
- Photography Permitted in public areas without flash or tripods. Permission is required for rare collections or special exhibitions.
Visitor services and accessibility
Lockers are available for coats and bags; large bags are not allowed in reading rooms. The library has an on-site café with refreshments, nearby dining options, and clean, accessible restrooms on each floor. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.
The library is fully accessible, with wheelchair ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and staff assistance for visitors with special needs.
Tips
- Weekday mornings are quieter.
- Bring valid ID for registration or access to special collections.
- Respect quiet zones and library etiquette.
- Food and drinks are permitted only in designated areas.
- For current information, events, and digital resources, consult the official website. The visitor guide also recommends tools such as the Audiala app.
Nearby places
- Łazienki Park Warsaw’s largest park and a green space.
- Warsaw Old Town A UNESCO World Heritage site.
- University of Warsaw Library Roof Garden Offers panoramic city views.
- Copernicus Science Centre An interactive science museum.
- Plac Konstytucji and the Ujazdów District Areas with historic and modern architecture (Nomadic Matt).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Central Medical Library Warsaw visiting hours?
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM; closed Sundays and holidays. Check the official website for holiday schedules.
Is there an entry fee?
No. General admission is free for all visitors.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Group tours can be arranged in advance, and informational materials are available for self-guided visits.
Is the library accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. It has ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and staff support.
Can I take photographs inside the library?
Yes, in public areas without flash or tripods. Permission is required for rare materials or special exhibitions.
Is there parking?
On-site parking is limited; public transport is recommended.
