Pennsylvania Hospital's Historic Library,
the first medical library in the United States, was begun
in 1762 as a teaching and reference library for the hospital's
managers, physicians and medical students. In addition to
thousands of medical and scientific volumes, the library contains
many books on natural history and botany. Also present are
several rare incunabula, books printed before 1501 during
the infancy of printing press technology.
The richness of Pennsylvania Hospital's Historic Library
is complemented by the scope of our other historic collections,
which include archival materials, paintings, photographs and
memorabilia. Historic materials are used regularly for research
and educational exhibits.
State law 50 P.S. 7111 prohibits the use of all patient
mental health records.
The Pennsylvania Hospital closes non-mental health patient
records for 100 years. Records older than 100 years are open
for researchers to view. All non-patient related material
is closed for 75 years from its creation. Certain restrictions
might still apply on specific records.
Attention Researchers and Visitors:
A new visitor management system is in effect as of October
1, 2008. All visitors will be required to check in at the
welcome desk upon arrival and receive a visitor badge. You
will be required to enter the Hospital via the main entrance
on 8th Street (between Spruce and Pine streets).
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