Treasures of the RSM
A fascinating insight into the history of medicine, the growth of the medical and scientific professions and into the lives of former members of the Society.
Online exhibitions
Notable Presidents of the Royal Society of Medicine
Take a closer look at a few of the prominent figures who have been inaugurated as President of the Royal Society of Medicine.
Around the world: Medical journeys through the ages
Follow voyages of world-renowned physicians, surgeons and nurses that have shaped our understanding of medicine, through the exploration of journals, logs and records dating back to the 1700s.
The rise of the specialty
This exhibition looks at the 100-year anniversary of the Royal Society of Medicine’s Urology Section, which was crucial to the establishment of urology as a medical specialty.
Sir William Osler, 1849-1919
A great figure in medicine from the late 1800s onwards, Sir William Osler was a member of the RSM and one of the founders of our History of Medicine Section. This exhibition takes a close look at the life of the renowned physician.
History of the Library
Steeped in 200 years of history, learn more about the beginnings of the RSM’s Library and how it has evolved into one of the largest medical libraries in Europe.
Women in medicine
Showcasing women throughout history who have practised medicine, this online exhibition is a celebration of leading female clinicians who have paved the way for women to practice medicine today.
Snapshots in LGBTQ + medical history
Showcasing key dates and moments that have impacted the medical history of LGBTQ, from the first documented gender reassignment surgery to the formation of LGBT networks by the UK Department of Health.
A harmless treasure
Take a closer look at the RSM Library’s collection of rare and beautiful herbal illustrations from the 16th and 17th century, including John Gerard's The Herball and John Parkinson's Theatrum Botanicum.
The Victorian Botanist
Continuing the theme of herbal illustration in our previous exhibition, A Harmless Treasure, this exhibition showcases the botanical books that emerged from the popular pursuit of botany in the Victorian era.
Past exhibitions
Download the exhibition booklet to read about exhibitions held in the Library.
So joyous and gentle a life: An exhibition in memory of Sir William Osler 1849 - 1919
November 2019 – February 2020
Marcel Proust and the medicine of the Belle Époque
November 2018 – January 2019
Around the world: Medical journeys throughout the ages
August – November 2018
The appointed day, July 5th 1948: An exhibition to mark 70 years of the NHS
April – August 2018
This little pamphlet: An exhibition to mark the bicentenary of James Parkinson’s essay on the shaking palsy
November 2017 – February 2018
Restoration for Research 2: Book conservation at the RSM Library
August – October 2017
Attachment: Our enduring need for others
February – April 2017