Columbia University Libraries

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= Columbia University Libraries =

The Columbia University Libraries is one of the largest academic library systems in the United States, serving the Columbia University community. The library system supports the research and educational needs of the university's students, faculty, and staff, providing access to a vast collection of resources across various disciplines.

History

The origins of the Columbia University Libraries date back to the founding of Columbia University in 1754. Over the centuries, the library system has grown significantly, both in terms of its physical collections and its digital resources. The libraries have played a crucial role in supporting the academic mission of the university, facilitating research, teaching, and learning.

Collections

The Columbia University Libraries boast an extensive collection of over 13 million volumes, including books, journals, manuscripts, maps, and other materials. The collections cover a wide range of subjects, from the humanities and social sciences to the natural sciences and engineering. Notable collections include the Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library, the Rare Book & Manuscript Library, and the C.V. Starr East Asian Library.

Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library

The Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library is one of the most comprehensive architecture libraries in the world. It houses a vast collection of books, periodicals, and archival materials related to architecture, historic preservation, and the fine arts.

Rare Book & Manuscript Library

The Rare Book & Manuscript Library (RBML) holds a significant collection of rare books, manuscripts, and archival materials. The RBML's collections span a wide range of subjects, including literature, history, and the sciences.

C.V. Starr East Asian Library

The C.V. Starr East Asian Library is one of the most important East Asian libraries in the United States. It contains extensive collections of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Tibetan materials, supporting research in East Asian studies.

Services

The Columbia University Libraries offer a variety of services to support the academic community. These services include reference assistance, research consultations, interlibrary loan, and access to digital resources. The libraries also provide study spaces, computer labs, and specialized equipment for research and learning.

Digital Resources

In addition to its physical collections, the Columbia University Libraries provide access to a wide range of digital resources. These include electronic journals, e-books, databases, and digital archives. The libraries are committed to expanding their digital collections and making them accessible to the university community.

Affiliations

The Columbia University Libraries are part of several consortia and collaborative initiatives, including the Research Libraries Group and the Association of Research Libraries. These affiliations enable the libraries to share resources and expertise with other leading academic libraries.

Related Pages

• Columbia University
• Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library
• Rare Book & Manuscript Library
• C.V. Starr East Asian Library
• Research Libraries Group
• Association of Research Libraries