History of Diving Museum in Islamorada recently received a collection of diving and maritime themed books from a pioneer in dive safety, Lee Somers.
He began diving in 1954, and throughout his life, he worked to develop and create many instructor and college educational programs, including the research diving program and a hyperbaric research facility at the University of Michigan. His tireless efforts have helped countless divers.
His wife Martha Somers and industry veteran Dan Orr coordinated the efforts to ship the books to the museum. With help from staff and volunteers, the vast inventory was sorted to allow the museum to determine which books contributed to the museum’s mission and which may be able to find a new home elsewhere.
Some volumes were donated back to the original organizations for their own historical records and libraries, while others are being made available to the public. The museum has listed the books that are available for purchase through the museum’s online store. Any book purchased from the vintage book sale section will help fund the museum’s research library.
The book topics include diving techniques, marine biology, technical manuals, and other fascinating themes. Some of the earlier books date back to the 1950s. There is a wide range of prices. The books also are available in the museum store. More information is at divingmuseum.org or 305-664-9737.
