Columbia University alumni, retirees, consortial partners, and other approved visitors may access all library locations with a valid CUID. All visitors must adhere to the University's COVID-19 policies.

Visitors without a CUID must present a valid government-issued ID and check in for each visit at the Library Information Office.

The following visitors are permitted to enter Columbia University Libraries:

• Alumni

• Retirees

• Spouses, domestic partners, and dependents of Columbia University officers

• Spouses, domestic partners, and dependents of Columbia University students

• Jewish Theological Seminary students, faculty, and staff

• Day visitors to Butler Library or the Rare Book & Manuscript Library:

  • Researchers with an appointment

  • Visitors attending events, programs, or viewing an exhibition

  • Interview candidates or individuals with other appointments

  • Individuals sponsored by a Columbia University Officer with a letter of introduction

• Consortial partners:

  • SHARES

  • MaRLI

  • Borrow Direct Plus

  • 2CUL

  • NYU

  • METRO

• Other special agreements as approved by the Libraries

Day visitors to all other libraries must contact the individual library in advance to make an appointment and receive access instructions.

Those who do not fall into the above categories may purchase access to Columbia University Libraries. Contact the Library Information Office for more details.

If you have questions regarding library access or your status as a visitor, including arranging access for spouses and domestic partners, please contact the Library Information Office prior to your visit.