About the Collection

The History of Medicine Collection is a special collection containing materials on the identification and treatment of diseases and the evolution of healthcare. This collection was originally established by Dr. Palmer Howard, History of Medicine Professor, and Leonard Eddy, Director of the Health Sciences Center Library. Others who contributed to the development of the History of Medicine Collection were Dr. Virginia Allen, Dr. David Mock, and Dr. William Knisely. In 2001-2002, Drs. Barton Carl and Patrick McKee, with support from Drs. Joseph Ferretti and Jerry Vannatta and with a grant from the Presbyterian Health Foundation, were instrumental in the remodeling and expansion of the History of Medicine area to improve the storage of materials and provide space for the use of these unique resources.

Collection Holdings

The History of Medicine contains over 5,000 volumes demonstrating the development of healthcare, the original identification of diseases, developing treatment of diseases, and science of medical practice. A special emphasis of the collection is the history of medical practice and healthcare in Oklahoma, which includes a number of extensive collections. These include the Moorman, Olgesbee, Knisely, Grass, West, Long, Tompkins, OU College of Nursing, Oklahoma State Medical Association, and Oklahoma State Nursing collections. These donations along with many others provide unparalleled materials that enhance the understanding of medicine and healthcare.

Come and Visit

Stop by and visit the History of Medicine Collection at the Robert M. Bird Library, on the fourth floor, room 418.

For more information stop by or contact the library at 405-271-2285. Hours for the HOM are 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.