About the Library and Archives
Both the Basser Library and Fenner Archives remain open to researchers and members of the public via appointment. Please contact library@science.org.au to organise a time.
Basser Library
Sir Adolph Basser was an optician, jeweller and philanthropist whose £25,000 donation in 1960 enabled the Academy to establish a library. The Basser Library was officially opened by Prime Minister Robert Menzies in 1962. The library includes an extensive collection of books, scientific journals, periodicals and proceedings.
Fenner Archives
With over 240 sub-collections, the Fenner Archives is a vibrant repository of largely unpublished resources donated by Fellows of the Academy, prominent Australian scientists, and scientific organisations. Its estimated page count numbers in the millions.
The Fenner Archives were established in 1962 by then research associate Ann Moyal and is named for the eminent microbiologist Professor Frank Fenner. Just some of the highlights from the Archive include:
