Special Collections

Robert Whipple's donation of nearly 1400 rare science books formed the nucleus of the Whipple Library. Since its inception, the Library has continued to acquire rare books through both purchase and subsequent donations. Today, the Whipple Library special collections consists of approximately 9000 items, comprising 4000 volumes and 5000 pamphlets. 

Whipple envisioned that his collection of books would be used in conjunction with the scientific instruments of the Whipple Museum to promote the study of the history and philosophy of science in Cambridge. We continue to honour his wishes of making these rare books available to students and researchers by allowing Library users to consult items in person, curating exhibitions featuring our special collections in the Library, and highlighting individual items on our Books Blog. 

For more information on the contents of our special collections, past and current exhibitions, our Books Blog, and how to see our rare books for yourself, see the dedicated webpages.