McGill University – Osler Library

The Osler Library of McGill University's Faculty of Medicine houses a priceless collection of books and manuscripts on the history of medicine, bequeathed by Sir William Osler in 1919. Originally housed in a room designed by Percy Nobbs in the Strathcona building, the library was transferred to the new McIntyre Medical Building in 1962. However, its integration into this modern structure was difficult, and the books were gradually moved to other storage spaces. EVOQ was mandated to renovate the 3rd and 4th floors of the Osler Library, in the “panhandle” of the McIntyre Medical Building, with the aim of better protecting rare books and artifacts. Books were relocated to suitable spaces, with rigorous climatic and environmental controls. The collection was sorted according to these needs, specific spaces were created for controlled access and environmental conditions appropriate for the different collections, and the majority of books were reinstalled in their original shelves.