1.8.6 Libraries

All of the McGill University libraries are available to health sciences users but three of them are likely to be of particular interest. These are the Health Sciences Library and the Osler Library of the History of Medicine, both situated in the McIntyre Medical Sciences Building and the Macdonald Campus Library - which is a primary resource for Dietetics and Human Nutrition users.

The Health Sciences Library was founded in 1823, making it the oldest health sciences library in Canada. The library contains about 285,000 volumes and it receives about 1000 current print journal titles. In addition to print, the library licenses access to a variety of electronic resources, including over 3,500 journals. Access to licensed electronic resources is available to all McGill faculty, staff and students.

The library is a major resource for teaching, research and clinical care in communication sciences and disorders, dentistry, medicine and physical and occupational therapy. The library is noted for its strong retrospective collection of books and journals. Information on the library collections and services can be found at www.health.library.mcgill.ca.

The library is open to all who need to use its collections. Borrowing privileges are extended to all McGill faculty, staff and students. The library's hours vary throughout the year and are available on the Web site noted above or by telephoning (514) 398-4475. It should be noted that only holders of valid McGill ID cards can access the library during weekend or evening hours.

The Osler Library of the History of Medicine, which opened in 1929, is physically and intellectually connected to the Health Sciences Library. The library has as its nucleus the 8,000 volumes willed to McGill University in 1919 by Sir William Osler (one of its most famous pupils and teachers). The collection now totals over 55,000 volumes as Sir William's original gift has been augmented by transfers from the Health Sciences Library, by other gifts and bequests and by an active purchasing program. The library is supported by a Friends group, publishes a Newsletter, available at the Web site noted above and offers an annual research travel grant.

The Osler Library is open to all who wish to consult its collections and current material is available for loan. Borrowing privileges are extended to all McGill faculty, staff and students. The library is open only on weekdays from 9:00 to 5:00 and in July and August is also closed on Fridays.