Why Adopt?

Book adoptions support the costs associated with the purchase of a book in our collections. By adopting an item from our Library you are investing in one of the most significant historical libraries in medicine and health. You become part of a book’s story through your generous contribution and enable the continued growth and development of the Library collection. 

All donors recieve:

• A virtual bookplate acknowledging your gift
• A place on our virtual Donor Wall
• A mention in the item's catalog entry
• Acknowledgment in The Academy's Annual Report

Rare Book and Curator’s Choice adoptions include a physical bookplate tipped in to the actual book. A tipped-in plate is placed with the text block of the book but not physically attached for preservation purposes.

If you have questions about a particular rare book available for adoption, please reference the catalog entry listed for that book in your query to enable us to better assist you. Please contact us by calling the Library office at 212-822-7315 or emailing library@nyam.org.

What is Adopt a Book?

The Library makes a limited number of rare books available for adoption, offering a unique and wide range of subjects to meet the interests of bibliophiles everywhere. An an adopter, you become a permanent part of the story of the book, through a beautiful bookplate that will be inserted in the front of the book.

Please contact us if you have questions about a particular book currently available for adoption, or would like to inquire about a book not listed on this site.

What is Curator’s Choice?

These items are vital resources for the many students, scholars, educators, clinicians, and members of the general public who use our collections. Contact us if you are interested in a topic or book not currently listed on this website.

What is Adopt a Card Catalog Drawer?

Drawers in our card catalog are also available for adoption. Prior to computers and database technology, our Library, like most, used a system of uniform sized cards to catalog the materials in the collection. Card catalogs are an iconic symbol of libraries, research, and the love of reading and learning.

What is a Themed Adoption?

The Library has gathered certain materials together into groups based on thematic relationships that highlight collection strengths and unique holdings—such as banned books, books of Harry Potter's World, and cookery. Please note that Themed Adoptions are available for multiple adoptions, i.e., more than one person can adopt an item. 

Do I keep the book?

Adoptions are symbolic; the book stays at the Library and it remains available to use by appointment. Adopters will receive a digital bookplate.

Can I adopt a book for someone else?

Yes. Once you have chosen a book, you can opt to give it as a gift and include a gift message during the payment process. Not sure what book is right? Contact us and we are happy to help you select a book that will be especially meaningful to your honoree.

What does it mean to care for a book?

An adoption contribution goes towards the care of a book, supporting the LIbrary's vital and core activities. Caring for a book means that damaged or fragile iteams are repaired and the book is kept in a safe environment. The book is cataloged so that readers and researchers can readily find it. In more and more cases, the book is digitized so it can be used by those who cannot come to our reading room.

Are adoptions tax deductible?

All adoptions are fully tax deductible to the extent provided by law. Donors receive a letter by mail for tax deductions.

Can I visit my book?

Yes. The Library is open for visits by appointment. When making an appointment to use the Library be sure to include your adopted book’s information, particularly the catalog entry provided for rare books up for adoption, so the librarians can bring out the book. 

Please contact us with additional questions at the Library office by calling 212-822-7315 or emailing library@nyam.org.