Combinatorial chemistry, by accelerating the process of chemical synthesis, is having a profound effect on all branches of chemistry, particularly in pharmaceuticals. This informative text explains the origins of combinatorial chemistry and provides a context for the many diverse library methods. It explains why some techniques are generally applicable while others are for specialists only. It also focuses on the renaissance of solid phase chemistry and describes the range of available reactions. The first single-author book on this growing field, it describes the beneficial impact of combinatorial chemistry, especially for the discovery and optimization of biologically active molecules. This concise and comprehensive overview of combinatorial techniques is an essential text for students and academic and industrial researchers in chemistry, bio-organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceuticals. It provides an accessible introduction to the area for those new to these methods and a valuable reference text to those experienced in this field.