The History of Medicine Library hosted two successful events in November, 2023.

Firstly, the College took part in the Open Sydney program, held on Sunday 5th November. Despite the inclement weather of the day, all tours of the College's historical rooms were oversubscribed by midday. More than 160 members of the public toured the Fellows, Edward Ford and Council Rooms between 9:30 and 4:30pm. Chair of the Library, Cultural Collections and Heritage Committee, Honorary Associate Professor Catherine Storey and Curator Karen Myers guided the groups through the history of the building, as well as highlighting the role of the College in the community.

This was followed by a Fellows and trainees event hosted by the President, Dr. Jacqueline Small, on the College terrace. Dr. Small spoke about the significance of the heritage of the College in the life of its physicians. Many attendees mentioned it was their first visit to the College and how surprised and intrigued they were by the collections held onsite, not to mention the impressive architecture of 145 Macquarie St.

Secondly, the launch of the History of Medicine Library Friends group was held on the 14th November. A group of 15 assembled to hear Catherine Storey and the President of the Friends of the Sydney University Library, Ross Coleman, address the proposed role of the group and its potential activities. As Catherine Storey previously advocated:

We are inviting our own Fellows and trainees to be part of this new group, but in order to ensure that we maintain the highest possible standards of interest and research we are also inviting others who share a passion for the History of Medicine in Australia and New Zealand to become Friends. Through an annual program of exhibitions, seminars and lectures we hope that the fine collection of the College will find a greater audience who appreciate its value and preserve the collection for future generations.

‘Friends’ from all states, territories and ‘across the ditch’ can join together, now that we are all so familiar with on-line meeting platforms.

If you would like to become a member of the Friends group please register your interest for its 2024 activities here