Library Company of Philadelphia Acquires 19th-Century Collection on Sex and Popular Medicine
Philadelphia, PA, August 2, 2026 — The Library Company of Philadelphia has announced the acquisition of a significant collection comprising approximately 1,500 19th-century books focused on sex and…
Philadelphia, PA, August 2, 2026 —
The Library Company of Philadelphia has announced the acquisition of a significant collection comprising approximately 1,500 19th-century books focused on sex and popular medicine. The extensive collection was a donation from historian Charles E. Rosenberg.
These acquired volumes, described as ‘scandalous’ manuals, delve into subjects such as birth control, masturbation, and broader aspects of sexual health. At the time of their original publication, these topics were largely considered taboo and the books were often kept private or hidden from public view.
The newly acquired collection is expected to provide valuable insights into the private lives, attitudes, and societal norms surrounding sexuality during the 18th and 19th centuries. Researchers and the public will gain a unique perspective on how these subjects were discussed and understood in historical contexts.
Further details regarding the specific titles within the collection or immediate plans for public access were not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by Elizabeth Wellington on www.inquirer.com, see more information here.
