“Among these books sat Scientists, Scholars and Nobel Prize Chemists dedicated to discovering the mysteries of nature as it relates to essential oils, flavors, fragrances and aroma chemicals.To the pioneers of the future who follow in their footsteps those of the past send their greetings."

Plaque, The Schimmel Library

Founded in 1870, this is one of the largest collections of books, periodicals and other information on flavors, fragrances, aroma chemicals, botanicals and essential oils ever assembled. With over 30,000 volumes, the scientific library stands as a symbol of the innovations which were discovered here. The knowledge provided helped advance the flavor and fragrance industry to new heights.

Many of the library’s treasures date back to the early 1700’s, seen here an example of one page from The Encyclopedia of Botanicals which includes all hand-painted illustrations. The library contains all seventeen volumes of this hand-painted botanical series. The publications and notes of Dr. Otto Wallach, Nobel Prize Winner for Chemistry in 1910 are also displayed.

In September 1999, it was the meeting place for the 30th International Symposium on Essential Oils with over 350 scientists attending from 30 countries.

Bell Flavors & Fragrances is very proud to be the caretaker of this important historical information and hopes that it leads to future innovations!

The library is open to all individuals, academics and historians working in the flavor, fragrance, aroma chemical, botanical and essential oil industry. The library is open to the public upon written request.