Erik Waller (collector)

Erik Waller (1875-1955) was a Swedish surgeon, medical historian, and noted book collector. He is best known for assembling one of the largest and most significant private collections of medical books and manuscripts in the world.

Waller pursued a successful career in medicine, specializing in surgery, while simultaneously dedicating himself to the study of medical history. This passion led him to amass an impressive library, meticulously built over several decades. His collection covered a wide range of topics within medicine, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, surgery, and infectious diseases, spanning from the medieval period to the 20th century. He acquired rare books, incunabula (books printed before 1501), manuscripts, letters, portraits, and other related materials.

Recognizing the importance of his collection for scholarly research, Waller bequeathed it to Uppsala University Library in Sweden. The Erik Waller Collection at Uppsala University Library is now a valuable resource for researchers in the history of medicine and science. It includes landmark works by prominent figures in medical history and provides insights into the evolution of medical knowledge and practice. The collection is actively used for research, teaching, and public outreach, preserving Waller's legacy as a dedicated collector and scholar.