Lloyd Library and Museum

Library and museum in Cincinnati, Ohio

The Lloyd Library and Museum is a specialized library and museum located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is renowned for its extensive collections in the fields of botany, pharmacy, natural history, and the history of medicine. The library serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and the general public interested in these disciplines.

History

The Lloyd Library and Museum was established by the Lloyd brothers, John Uri Lloyd, Nelson Ashley Lloyd, and Curtis Gates Lloyd, who were prominent figures in the field of pharmacy and botanical medicine. The library's origins date back to the late 19th century when the Lloyd brothers began collecting books and materials related to their professional interests.

The library was officially founded in 1902 and has since grown to house a vast collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts. The Lloyd brothers were particularly interested in the study of materia medica and pharmacognosy, which is reflected in the library's holdings.

Collections

The Lloyd Library and Museum's collections are diverse and comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics related to botany, pharmacy, and natural history.

Lloyd Library exterior

Botanical Works

The library holds an impressive array of botanical works, including rare books and illustrations. Notable items include the "Flora Graeca" by John Sibthorp, a monumental work on the flora of Greece.

Frontispiece of Flora Graeca

Pharmacy and Medicine

The Lloyd Library is particularly strong in the areas of pharmacy and the history of medicine. It contains numerous texts on pharmacology, herbal medicine, and the development of pharmaceutical practices over the centuries.

Natural History

The library's natural history collection includes works by renowned naturalists and explorers. Among its treasures is "Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium" by Maria Sibylla Merian, which documents the life cycles of insects in Suriname.

Plate from Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium

Exhibitions and Programs

The Lloyd Library and Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year. These events are designed to engage the public and promote understanding of the library's collections and the subjects they cover. The library also offers lectures, workshops, and other activities that highlight the intersection of science, art, and history.

Access and Research

The Lloyd Library and Museum is open to the public and welcomes researchers from around the world. It provides access to its collections through on-site visits and offers research assistance to those interested in exploring its holdings. The library's staff is dedicated to preserving and sharing the knowledge contained within its walls.

Related pages

• Botany
• Pharmacy
• Natural history
• History of medicine