Gifts Policy

Over the years, the Welch Medical Library has been grateful to individuals and departments who have enriched Welch's collections through book, journal, and audiovisual donations. Such donations have been valuable sources of historically significant works as well as replacement copies for damaged or missing materials.

The Library accepts gifts of book and non-print materials that are current (post-1990 publication) and in scope, directly supporting curriculum, clinical or research needs of the JHMI. Newly published books are especially welcome. Serial donations will be accepted only if they fill specific gaps in the collection. The Library will not add duplicates except in the case of certain signed copies or items with high circulation. Questions about the donation of historical materials (pre-1990 publications) should be directed to The Institute of the History of Medicine, 410-955-3159. Materials which are deemed to be within the scope of another JH library will be offered to that library. Material donated to the Library becomes the property of the university and can be used or disposed of as we see fit. We are legally prohibited from providing tax appraisals for gifts, but we do provide a formal letter of acknowledgment to which is attached the donor-supplied itemized list. If appraisal is desired, the donor must arrange it and bear the cost before presenting materials to the Library. For information regarding appraisals, call Christine Ruggere, Curator of the Historical Collection, 410-955-3159.

Donors are encouraged to call or email us prior to making a donation so that the need for the material can be determined. Calls and emails should be directed to Mary Kelley, 410-955-3757 (mkelley@mail.jhmi.edu). Donors are encouraged to deliver their gifts to the library after verifying that they are needed. All gifts will be formally acknowledged by the Associate Director of Collections and Document Services.

Monetary gifts are welcome! Such gifts allow us to purchase special items or support programs that are beyond our normal means. Financial contributions may also be made through membership in the Friends of Johns Hopkins University Libraries by adding a special gift earmarked for Welch Library, or through the Johns Hopkins Office of Planned Giving.