Low Library

The Low Library, located on the Columbia University campus in New York City, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and a hub of academic and intellectual activity. Designed by Charles Follen McKim of the renowned architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, the building was completed in 1902 and has since become an iconic landmark in the city. With its impressive granite façade, soaring columns, and grand domed reading room, the Low Library is a testament to the enduring power of classical design and a symbol of the university's commitment to learning and scholarship.

History and Architecture

The Low Library was made possible through a generous gift from Seth Low, a former mayor of New York City and president of Columbia University. Low’s vision for the library was to create a space that would inspire students and faculty to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits, and his gift of 1.5 million (approximately 45 million today) enabled the university to bring this vision to life. The building’s design was influenced by the Pantheon in Rome, with a large central dome and a grand portico supported by six Corinthian columns. The exterior walls are constructed from granite, with a base of rough-hewn stone and a smooth ashlar finish above. The interior of the library features a sweeping staircase, intricately carved wooden paneling, and a beautifully decorated ceiling with ornate moldings and gilded details.

Collection and Resources

The Low Library is home to a vast and diverse collection of academic resources, including over 1.5 million volumes, 100,000 serial titles, and extensive holdings of rare books, manuscripts, and archival materials. The library’s collections are particularly strong in the areas of humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, with notable holdings in the fields of history, literature, philosophy, and art history. In addition to its physical collections, the library also provides access to a wide range of digital resources, including e-books, online journals, and databases. The library’s staff is committed to providing expert research assistance and instruction to support the academic success of Columbia students and faculty.

Services and Programs

In addition to its collections and research assistance, the Low Library offers a range of services and programs to support the academic success of Columbia students and faculty. These include workshops and instruction on research skills, citation management, and academic writing, as well as individual consultations with librarians and other experts. The library also hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, including author readings, lectures, and displays of rare and special materials. The library’s digital scholarship program provides support for faculty and students working on digital projects, including consultations on project design, data management, and digital pedagogy.

Special Collections and Archives

The Low Library’s special collections and archives are a treasure trove of rare and unique materials, including manuscripts, letters, diaries, and other primary sources. The library’s holdings are particularly strong in the areas of American history, literature, and culture, with notable collections related to the history of New York City, the Civil War, and the Harlem Renaissance. The library’s archives also include the papers of notable individuals, such as Alexander Hamilton, Mark Twain, and Zora Neale Hurston, as well as the records of organizations and institutions, such as the Columbia University Board of Trustees and the American Committee for Relief in the Near East.

The Low Library's special collections and archives are open to researchers by appointment, and the library's staff is happy to provide guidance and support to help users navigate these rich and complex resources. Whether you are a student, faculty member, or independent researcher, the Low Library's special collections and archives offer a wealth of opportunities for discovery and exploration.