For the Public

The NIH Library is a biomedical research library whose collections and services are developed to support the programs of the National Institutes of Health and selected U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) agencies. While the Library is open to the public, services are limited.

Photocopying

No photocopiers are available for the public.

Computers

One public computer is available in the main Reading Room for searching the NIH Library, NIH, and NLM websites. This computer is not connected to a printer.

Reference Assistance

Library staff members identify selected HHS publications, conferences, and programs in response to questions from the public but do not provide general medical reference assistance or literature searches.

Access to the Collections

Members of the public are welcome to browse the Library's print journals and books but may not borrow items from the collections. Online journals, online books, and most research databases are not available to the public.

Other Sources for Information

The National Library of Medicine

The National Library of Medicine is the world’s largest medical library. Services include reference assistance for the public. For details,  see Visitor and Researcher Information and NLM Reading Rooms and Services.

National Network of Libraries of Medicine

The Network’s mission is to provide all United States health professionals with equal access to biomedical information and to improve the public’s access to information to enable them to make informed decisions about their health. 

Health Information

A service of the National Institutes of Health, this site includes Health Topics A-Z; links to health newsletters, databases, hotlines, and Federal agencies; and a subscription form for the free weekly Health Information Spotlight newsletter.

Healthfinder

This service of the National Health Information Center provides links to prevention and wellness resources; a list of selected health care organizations; information on identifying health care providers; online checkups; and health news.

MedlinePlus

The National Library of Medicine maintains this authoritative health information site, which includes resources on health topics; facts on drugs and supplements; a medical encyclopedia and dictionary; physician and hospital directories; and current health news.

Questions about Services

If you have questions about NIH Library services for the public, contact the Information Desk, 301-496-1080.