(Exhibit curated by Damien Ihrig, curator for the John Martin Rare Book Room, and Helen Spielbauer, creative coordinator, Hardin Library)

50 years ago this fall, the University of Iowa opened the Health Sciences Library, later named in 1988 after Dr. Robert C. Hardin. A former physician and professor of internal medicine, Dr. Hardin served as the dean of the College of Medicine and vice president of health affairs.

The state-of-the-art facility replaced the out-of-date and overcrowded medical library in the Medical Laboratories building and served all the health sciences colleges, as well as the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

The library was designed as a dedicated resource for the health and information needs of UI faculty, staff, and students. Beyond traditional offerings like physical collections, interlibrary loans, and copying services, it included a 24-hour study area, early mainframe searching, numerous study spaces, and the John Martin Rare Book Room.

Guided by the principles of delivering high-quality library services, access to cutting-edge information resources, and providing secure and comfortable study and social spaces, Hardin Library and its dedicated staff strive to meet users’ evolving needs. The commitment is evident in the ongoing updates and renovations, including 2024 enhancements to the fourth floor and the John Martin Rare Book Room.

Please join us in a look back at 50 years of the Hardin Library for the Health Sciences as we look forward to the next 50!