This is of little interest to most except the nerdiest bibliophiles.
I made an appointment with a VCU Tompkins-McCaw medical library archivist (not librarian) to visit some of the 16th, 17th and 18th century manuscripts and books from the special collections and archives. Much of the collection is from that of Professor Herman J. Flax's collection of rare physiatry texts such as a 16th century french translation of Galen (pictured below). A Vesalius manuscript is also available for viewing via the Virginia Historical Society.
These books are old, frail, out of date, worn out and of no practical use. Regardless, they represent our ability to seek, learn and share, an inspiration for ongoing reading, learning, experimentation and growth.
I spent much of my medical school years studying in the Austin Flint Reading Room of Abbott Hall at the University at Buffalo (last picture below). Much like I am inspired to compete on the football pitch or exercise in the gym, the library encourages thought and reflection.
I have been repeatedly reminded by the medical students and residents that 'no one goes to the library anymore.'
Their loss.
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| Austin Flint Reading Room, University at Buffalo |
