Research at The Bakken Library and Museum

(Minneapolis, MN)

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kathleen Klehr 612-926-3878 ext. 215
klehr@thebakken.org

The Bakken significantly enhanced its library and museum storage, access, and services in 1999 with the addition of a beautiful new reading room, and renovation of the existing adjacent library rooms. Together they constitute a quieter, better organized library suite that for the first time permits direct access of researchers to the entire secondary and reference collections. A photocopy machine has also been added, for more convenient duplication services.

The focus of the Bakken's collections is the history of electricity and magnetism and their applications in the life sciences and medicine. Related materials include mesmerism and animal magnetism, 19th-century ephemera concerning alternative electromedical therapies, miscellaneous scientists' letters, and trade catalogues. The instruments include electrostatic generators, magneto-electric generators, induction coils, physiological instruments, recording devices, and accessories.

The Bakken offers Visiting Research Fellowships for the purpose of facilitating research in its collection of over 11,000 books, journals, manuscripts, and prints, as well as more than 2,000 scientific instruments. A catalog of books and manuscripts, as well as information on research fellowships may be found on the Bakken's web site (www.thebakken.org) or at no charge by contacting our Librarian.

To receive information about conducting research at the Bakken, contact Elizabeth Ihrig, Librarian at, ihrig@thebakken.org. Or you may call 612-926-3878, ext. 227, or send your request, along with your name and mailing address to:

Elizabeth Ihrig,
The Bakken Library and Museum,
3537 Zenith Avenue South,
Minneapolis, MN 55416-4623.

Appointments are recommended in order to ensure the best service. The Bakken welcomes all researchers, both real and virtual!

(Posted 5/29/01)