Boston Medical Library

BostonUnited States of America 42° N · 71° W

The Boston Medical Library (BML) stands as a distinguished institution dedicated to preserving and disseminating the rich history of medical science and…

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Boston Medical Library
Fleuron ornament from historical chemico-medical dissertation on mercury
Decorative fleuron illustration from the chemico-medical dissertation on mercury, highlighting historical medical literature details about mercury preparations and their use in venereal disorders.
Boston Medical Library building exterior in 1918
Historic Boston Medical Library building exterior captured in black and white photograph from 1918.
Historic Boston Medical Library building exterior in 1918
Black and white image of the Boston Medical Library building exterior captured in 1918 showing its architectural design and structure.
Old Boston Medical Library building in 1918
Historic black and white image of the Boston Medical Library building as it appeared in 1918, showcasing early 20th century architecture.
Boston Medical Library historic building entrance
Historic entrance of the Boston Medical Library building in 1918, showcasing classical architectural design.
Historical Boston Medical Library building at 8 Fenway in 1922
Black and white historic photo of the Boston Medical Library building located at 8 Fenway, dating back to 1922
Decorative fleurons from an 18th-century book on chemical lectures by Peter Shaw
Decorative fleurons illustration from the 1730s book 'Chemical Lectures' by Peter Shaw, used as ornamental elements in the text.
Ornamental fleuron illustration from a historical surgical book titled 'Colloquia chirurgica'
Decorative fleuron from the book 'Colloquia chirurgica: or, the art of surgery epitomiz'd and made easy', a historical surgical manual detailing practical approaches to surgery and anatomy by James Handley.
Fleuron illustration from the book Colloquia Chirurgica demonstrating surgical instruments and techniques from 18th century medical practice
Fleuron image from the 18th-century medical book Colloquia Chirurgica by James Handley, depicting surgical tools and methods used in surgery, aiding young practitioners to understand tumor, ulcer, wound, fracture, and dislocation treatment.
Engraving portrait of Enoch Hale 1790-1848
Detailed engraving of Enoch Hale, an American historical figure who lived from 1790 to 1848
Historical hall interior of Boston Medical Library with wooden bookshelves and a reading area
Interior view of the historical hall of the Boston Medical Library at 19 Boylston Place, featuring wooden bookshelves, reading tables, and classic architectural details.
Fleuron decorative design from 19th century medical book by James Parkinson
Decorative fleuron from the 19th century medical book 'Medical admonitions addressed to families' by James Parkinson, illustrating domestic medicine and health preservation guidance.

About the Boston Medical Library

The Boston Medical Library (BML) is a resource for people interested in medical history, healthcare, and scholarly research. Established in 1805 and reconstituted in 1875, it preserves and shares rare books, manuscripts, medical artifacts, art, and periodicals documenting the development of medical knowledge.

The BML supports medical professionals, students, historians, scholars, and the public. Its work includes historical research and preservation, contemporary research and education, digital access, and public programming.

History and Impact

The BML was founded to provide Boston’s medical community with access to the latest knowledge. It became the official library of the Massachusetts Medical Society in 1946 and partnered with Harvard Medical School in 1960, forming the Francis A. Countway Library of Medicine. Another account dates the creation of the Countway Library to 1965. The partnership created one of the world’s foremost academic medical libraries (Countway Library Transition).

Through the Center for the History of Medicine, the BML preserves rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts in support of research and public education (Countway Library Center for the History of Medicine). Its collections and resources support scholarship in medicine, dentistry, and public health. Digital access and public lectures extend its reach, while recent transitions allow the BML and Harvard Medical School to pursue focused missions with shared commitments.

Collections and Exhibitions

The BML’s collections include:

  • Rare books and manuscripts Incunabula and first editions by medical pioneers including Vesalius, Harvey, and Jenner.
  • Medical numismatics The Horatio Storer Collection, one of the world’s largest collections of medical coins and medals.
  • Portraits and iconography More than 80,000 images, including works by Gilbert Stuart and Rembrandt Peale.
  • Art and photography More than 100,000 medically themed works, including the Manfred Kramer Collection.
  • Periodicals and journals Extensive archives dating from the 17th century onward.
  • Artifacts and instruments Medical objects, including items associated with the Horatio Storer medical medal collection.
  • Warren Anatomical Museum Home to Phineas Gage’s skull, a significant artifact in neuroscience, and other medical artifacts.

Rotating exhibits curated by the Center for the History of Medicine feature themes such as surgery, public health, and education (Center for the History of Medicine). Collections can also be explored online through BML Digital Collections.

Visiting Information

Hours and Access

As of June 2025, the BML is undergoing transitions and renovations, and public access to certain collections, including manuscripts and rare books, is temporarily closed. BML Fellows and members of the Massachusetts Medical Society may access the library for research purposes. Public access is temporarily limited; check the official Boston Medical Library Visiting Info for current hours and access policies, which may change during renovations and transitions.

Admission, Tours, and Events

There is generally no admission fee, and general admission is free. Some events may require registration. Guided tours, when available, offer information about the library’s history and collections and are offered during special events. The BML hosts lectures, exhibits, and workshops throughout the year, sometimes featuring expert speakers and opportunities to view rare materials. Check the BML Events Calendar for upcoming events and tours.

Location and Getting There

The BML is centrally situated in Boston and is accessible by public transit, car, or on foot.

  • Subway Take the MBTA Green Line to Science Park/West End Station, a short walk from the library.
  • Bus Multiple MBTA routes serve the area. Plan a journey using the MBTA Trip Planner.
  • Car Parking is limited. Recommended garages include Government Center Garage and Parcels Parking Garage.

See BML Location & Directions for directions.

Accessibility

BML facilities include ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Service animals are welcome. Visitors who need specific accommodations should contact the library ahead of time at [email protected]. Remote digital resources, research assistance, and public programming also make BML resources available to a wider audience.

Boston University Medical Campus Library (BUMC)

The Boston University Medical Campus Library is a separate library with its own access arrangements and visiting hours.

  • Address 72 East Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118, Floors 11–13 of the BUMC Instructional Building.
  • Access Primarily for BU students, faculty, and staff with a BU ID. Reciprocal access is available to Boston Library Consortium affiliates; external researchers must arrange access in advance. See the BUMC Library Website.
  • Hours Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
  • Reference Desk Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Facilities Study spaces, group rooms, extensive digital and print collections, technology support, Wi-Fi, printing, and loaner equipment. The library is fully accessible and has elevators and assistive technologies.
  • Research support In-person and virtual assistance, curriculum-integrated instruction, and specialized online guides.
  • Getting there and parking The MBTA Silver Line serves the Washington Street stop. Limited paid parking is available in campus garages.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

Check the official BML website for the latest updates on access, hours, events, and policies, especially during ongoing renovations and transitions. Many collections are available online, and research assistance and public programming may also be available remotely. The Boston Medical Library Events Calendar and Countway Library Transition provide further information. The Audiala app is also suggested as a resource for enhancing a visit.

Nearby Attractions

  • Harvard Medical School Offers guided tours and public lectures.
  • Massachusetts General Hospital Museum Features the history of one of the oldest hospitals in the U.S.
  • Boston Common and Public Garden Historic parks suitable for a stroll.
  • Museum of Science Includes interactive health and medicine exhibits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Boston Medical Library open to the public?
Access is temporarily limited due to renovations. Check the BML website for updates.

Are guided tours available?
Tours are offered during special events. Check the events calendar.

Is there an admission fee?
General admission is free; some events may require registration.

Can I access collections online?
Many collections are digitized and available through the BML Digital Collections portal.

Is the library wheelchair accessible?
Yes.

How can I contact the library?
Email [email protected].