Course Materials Through the Libraries

We are committed to providing the broadest possible access to Columbia course materials through the Libraries, or to help our faculty and students find the most beneficial alternative option. Factors of access and affordability of course materials are of strategic importance to support Columbia faculty and other instructors in their mission of teaching and learning at Columbia. Additionally, we strive to support students in acquiring affordable, accessible course material for a more equitable and successful academic experience. 

If we do not have a certain material, we can help you find it or help identify an accessible, affordable alternative. 

For Students

  • Course Reserves makes required readings and materials, whether available electronically or in physical formats, freely available for students
  • First-Generation, Low-Income Partnership Library (FLI) is a collection of textbooks and other course materials available to low-income and/or first-generation undergraduate students
  • CLIO, our online catalog, provides access to millions of items available for borrowing
  • BorrowDirect enables Columbia faculty and students to request material from partner libraries for delivery within 1-2 business days

For Faculty & Instructors

  • Consultations with Subject Experts are available to identify the best options for accessing course materials 
  • Course Reserves enables faculty to request readings and materials be made freely available for students through the Libraries
  • First-Generation, Low-Income Partnership Library (FLI) enables faculty to request that copies of course materials be made available to low-income and/or first-generation undergraduate students
  • Purchase Requests can be submitted for materials not readily available through the Libraries
  • Open Education Resources are teaching, learning, and research materials that are either (a) in the public domain or (b) licensed in a manner that provides everyone with free and perpetual permission to engage in the 5 Rs of OER activities for educational purposes: Retain, Reuse, Revise, Remix, and Redistribute.