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The collection of the Othmer Library is open to all researchers. Materials from the stacks will be paged to the Jacobs Reading Room for use. For all services and inquiries, contact:

Othmer Library of Chemical Histor
y
315 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106-2702
Phone: 215-873-8269
Fax: 215-629-5269
reference@chemheritage.org

Library Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday*

  • Researchers are encouraged to contact staff to make an appointment in advance of a visit. All researchers must provide a photo ID upon arrival.
  • *Please note that the Library is closed on most public holidays.

Electronic Access
The Othmer Library’s online public access catalog (OPAC) is available here.

Reference Services
The Othmer Library offers reference services, available on-site or by telephone, mail, or e-mail reference@chemheritage.org. Reference questions that can be answered in 30 minutes or less are available free of charge. Assistance with in-depth inquiries is available for reasonable rates. See services and fees.

Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery Services
The Othmer Library offers interlibrary loan and document delivery services, available on-site or by telephone, mail, or e-mail documents@chemheritage.org. These services are available during regular library hours for reasonable rates. See services and fees.

Use of Materials
The Library makes its books and manuscripts as accessible as possible within the limits set by their rarity and condition. The following are not available for interlibrary loan:

  • Pre-1900 materials
  • Fragile materials
  • Rare books
  • Folios

Travel Grants

The Beckman Center for the History of Chemistry sponsors grants to cover transportation and lodging expenses for researchers who wish to use the Othmer Library and other CHF resources for short-term research (1 to 4 weeks). Visit our travel grants page to learn more and apply.