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

blue armchairs, shelves, columns in library
November 7, 2025
Library Programs & Activities

Othmer Library Tour

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

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November 7, 2025
First Fridays

First Friday: Nautical Navigation

Think you have what it takes to survive on the seven seas? Test your skills in a nautical navigation choose-your-own-adventure game!

brass microscope
November 8, 2025
For Families

Mighty Machines at the Please Touch Museum

Learn about the history of microscopy, how microscopes work, and look at various specimens from plants to fibers.

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