Library Services

Schedule a Library Visit

The Othmer Library is open to researchers by appointment only. Appointments are available Monday through Friday from 10am to 4pm (except major holidays) and must be made and confirmed 24 hours in advance.

Ask a Reference Question

Our librarians and archivists are happy to provide research assistance and reference services free of charge.

Apply for a Travel Grant

The Othmer Library offers $750 travel grants for periods of up to two weeks for researchers who live more than 75 miles from Philadelphia. Applications and research visits are accepted and approved on a rolling basis.

Copy Requests

To request photocopies and document delivery, please email us at documents@sciencehistory.org or call us at 215.873.8269. Interlibrary loan requests can be made through WorldShare, OCLC Symbol: C8F.

Reading Room Policies

Please follow these simple procedures when you arrive:

• Provide a current photo ID

• Fill out a registration form

• Place umbrellas and bags into a locker

• Use only pencils or laptops for note taking

• Use of digital cameras is allowed for research purposes

• Further procedures for archival collections and rare books will be provided

Library Staff

Contact members of the Othmer Library staff.