Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

Since its founding in 1988, the Othmer Library at the Science History Institute has been a haven for research in the history of science—but there’s more to the story. Explore the reading room on a guided tour, learn how our collection has grown, and discover why we have one of the most comprehensive rare book collections on chemistry and its alchemical roots.


Othmer Library Tours are available every other Wednesday at 12pm and on the first Friday of most months at 4pm.

Registration is required for Wednesday tours; First Friday tours are drop-in. Guests under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

More events

illustration of a woman and a child playing with pool toys
June 27, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Celebration of Summer

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

A striking illustration of a fireworks display featuring cascading golden sparks and colorful, geometric patterns. History of fireworks.
June 29, 2026
Free

SemiQUIZcenntenial Trivia Night

Kick off Independence Week during America’s 250th with a special edition of historically themed Quizzo and patriotic prizes celebrating the people, ideas, and moments that shaped the American story.

Science History Institute Othmer Library
July 1, 2026
Free

Othmer Library Tour

Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

    Republish

    Copy the above HTML to republish this content. We have formatted the material to follow our guidelines, which include our credit requirements. Please review our full list of guidelines for more information. By republishing this content, you agree to our republication requirements.