The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library was founded in 1941 by donations from the extensive collections of physicians /bibliophiles Harvey Cushing, John H. Fulton and Arnold Klebs. The library contains one of the world’s finest historical medical collections, including 130,000 rare books from the 14th century to the present day.
Today the collection continues to grow through the purchase of additional rare books and gifts from donors.
Although many of our rare books are in good condition, the passing of decades and centuries has taken its toll on a number of books. During the past four years, a preservation librarian has chronicled and assessed the collection and prioritized conservation efforts.
To preserve the thousands of items that have been identified as requiring conservation, we ask you to consider partnering with us through our Adopt a Rare Book program.
You will help to protect the extraordinary Cushing/Whitney Historical collection and ensure its existence for future generations of scholars and students by making a gift to this project and adopting a rare book.
We will acknowledge your generous support with a certificate, along with an invitation for a personal tour and an introduction to your adopted book.
For questions regarding preservation, contact Sarah McGlynn, Preservation Librarian at sarah.mcglynn@yale.edu or 203-737-2954.
To make a gift or for information regarding ways to give, contact Sharon McManus, Development Officer, sharon.mcmanus@yale.edu or 203-436-8543.
Contribution Levels*
Vesalius $3,000-and up
Galen $1,000-$2,000
Pare $2,000-$3,000
Hippocrates $100-$1,000
*Conservation treatments typically begin at $1,000. All monetary increments are welcome. Donations less than $1,000 will be combined to reach this goal.
