The Science History Institute will be closed on Wednesday, December 31 and Thursday, January 1.

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 strawberry shortcake
January 3, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Last Bite of School Lunch

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

cover of comic book
January 3, 2026
Drop-In Tours

School Lunch Tour

This interactive drop-in tour reveals how food scientists, the government, and the public have shaped in-school nutrition.

Oral history bound copies, recorder, microphone
January 5, 2026
Classes & Workshops

Oral History Training Institute

This virtual training workshop introduces researchers to oral history and research interview methodologies.

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