The Donald F. and Mildred Topp Othmer Library of Chemical History

The Othmer Library of Chemical History encompasses the history of chemistry and related sciences and industries. Strengths include alchemy, industries, general science, physics, physiology, medicine, toxicology, pathology, pharmacology, pharmacy and material medica, technology, engineering, environmental topics, mining, and chemical manufacturers.

Schedule a Visit ›

Plan and schedule a research visit.

Services ›

The Othmer Library provides reference and interlibrary-loan services.

Staff ›

The Othmer Library staff is available Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Please contact us by phone or through our inquiry forms.

Donald and Mildred Othmer ›

In 1988 the Othmers launched a challenge grant to establish CHF's Donald F. and Mildred Topp Othmer Library of Chemical History. 

Bolton Society ›

the Bolton Society encourages and promotes the individual love for and collection of all types of printed material devoted to chemistry and related sciences.

Midon Catalog ›

Search through over 100,000 volumes on Midon, the online catalog of the Othmer Library.

Upcoming Events

Meet us in person at one of these events:

Hear It Firsthand

CHF’s Oral History Program captures and preserves the stories of notable figures in chemistry and related fields. Learn more about their projects or order a transcript today.

Fellowships at CHF


CHF’s scholars, who spend anywhere from one to nine months in residence, form a vital part of CHF’s intellectual life.

Historically Grounded Perspectives

CHF’s Center for Contemporary History and Policy explores issues ranging from energy to medicine on our blog, Periodic Tabloid.

 

Ship of Fellows

CHF’s fellowship program attracts researchers from all over the world. Read about their work and time in Philadelphia on the Periodic Tabloid.

 

Arnold O. Beckman

CHF’s Beckman Center for the History of Chemistry was started with a generous grant from the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation in 1986.

 

Meet the Othmers