CLEVELAND HEALTH SCIENCES LIBRARY

Allen Memorial Medical Library

The Cleveland Medical Library Association carefully planned and built the Allen Memorial Medical Library building to house their library collections and their growing historical collections--now part of the Dittrick Medical History Center and Museum. They chose the architectural firm of Frank R. Walker and Harry E. Weeks, a firm noted in the Midwest for their classical revival style. Walker and Weeks left the largest legacy of important structures in Cleveland of any architectural firm in the city's history, including the Federal Reserve Bank, The Cleveland Public Library, and Severance Hall. The construction firm of Reaugh was retained, and the cornerstone was laid on July 23, 1925.

The building is considered an architectural prize, resembling the Petit Trianon at Versailles on a larger scale. It is neo-classic in style. From its pink marble exterior steps and bronze doors, to its marble lobby and interior stairs, and reading rooms done in an English university tradition, it is a visual pleasure. The architectural significance of the Allen is noted in its designation as both a Cleveland Landmark and as part of the National Register of Historic Places.

The Allen Memorial Medical Library comprises one half of the Cleveland Health Sciences Library (along with the Health Center Library). It holds all of the clinical journals, which may be consulted in the Cushing Reading Room, and includes the 450 seat Ford Auditorium. It contains the Dittrick Medical History Center, consisting of the Dittrick Museum of Medical History, the Archives and Rare Book collection. Building tenants include the Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation and UCITE.

The current charge for traditional printers and copiers is $0.15 per page. In addition to traditional printers and copiers, color equipment is available. 8 1/2 x 11 copies are only $0.50 cash, 11 x 17 copies are $0.75 cash, and transparencies are $1.50 cash. Copies and transparencies may also be charged to a grant or department. The circulation staff will assist you with this service. The library provides no change. Please call the Circulation Department at 216.368.3641 for more information.

Journals do not circulate and loan periods for books vary. Valid ID is required for use of all materials. Materials are shelved in many locations in the Allen.

Food is not permitted in the library and beverages are not permitted at the computer workstations.

Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Please be considerate of others when using cell phones in the library.

Allen Hours