A gift that spurred a legacy

With his private collection of medical books — including such titles as An account of the breeding worms in human bodies; their nature, and several sorts; their effects, symptoms, and prognostics. With the true means to avoid them, and med’cines to cure them, by Nicholas Andry (1701) — and a generous $5,000 gift, John Goodhue Treadwell, MD, bequeathed more than just books and cash to the MGH over a century ago. Treadwell’s 1858 gift greatly expanded the MGH’s then small medical library into a legacy of resources for countless clinicians, researchers, patients, visitors and the MGH community at large — the Treadwell Library.

In celebration of its founder and establishment 160 years ago, Treadwell Library staff hosted Treadwell Day Aug. 1. Guests stopped by the library, located at the Bartlett Hall Extension, to view a vintage photo display, enjoy refreshments and learn about the man for whom the library is named.

The Treadwell Library offers thousands of resources including eBooks, eJournals, databases, print resources, computers, newspapers and a knowledgeable library staff. Librarians teach classes both at the library or individual department sites. The Treadwell Day exhibit will remain on display through Aug. 15.

For more information, call (617) 726-8601 or send an e-mail to TreadwellQ&A@partners.org.