Policies
This section is provides basic information about Lerner Hall building policy.
Building Entry
Access
Columbia University ID cardholders use a valid ID for entry to the building. Valid ID holder can host up to two (2) guests for whom they accept responsibility and must be present with at all times. When admitting guests, both ID cardholder and guest(s) must show identification to the desk attendant and the guest(s) must sign in.
Attendance at Scheduled Events
Access for non-CUID holders attending events in Lerner Hall will be arranged at the time the event is scheduled. Read more information about guest lists in the Student Event Policy section.
Conference Participants
Residential and/or long term conference participants will receive temporary-access cards during their stay on campus and are expected to carry their ID cards while in Lerner Hall.
Office Visitors
Occupants of offices in Lerner Hall may leave a daily list of expected visitors at the information desk. Guest(s) are required to show identification and sign in before entering. If a visitor's name does not appear on the daily access list, the visitor will be announced to the office before signing in and entering.
Responsibilities of Hosts
Those hosting a guest(s) in the building are responsible for the actions of their guests. Inappropriate behavior by either party can result in the revocation of Lerner guest-access privileges. Public Safety will maintain a list of guests/visitors who are not permitted access to Lerner Hall and a list of hosts who are no longer permitted to sign in guests.
General Use and Safety Policies
Advertising
Event advertising, both on and off campus, may not be done before copy is approved by the reservation coordinator and where relevant, the student activities advisor or appropriate dean.
When an event requires admission by ticket, or if there is an attendance limit, all advertising must describe these requirements. If an event is sold out, the sponsoring organization must make a good faith effort to publicize that information. If admission requires an ID, copy must include which IDs will be accepted stating “Valid ID card from (insert names of invited schools or organizations) or Columbia University required for admission to event.”
The sponsoring organization must be the sole source of event advertising and its name must appear on all advertising. Advertising indicating that a Columbia University school or department is sponsoring the event must receive written consent of the appropriate University dean or designated school officer. University policies and state laws covering the distribution or sale of alcohol at an event will apply to all advertising copy.
Animals
Dogs, cats and other pets and animals are prohibited from the premises of Lerner Hall unless assisting a disabled individual.
Banners
Banners related to student events and activities may be hung at approved locations inside Lerner Hall and will be coordinated and scheduled by Lerner Hall staff. Students must submit a space use request signed by the recognized student group's advisor.
Banners may be no larger than 8' in length and 6' in height. Fire-safety concerns require that banners must be made of fire-retardant materials or treated with a fire-retardant chemical. Lerner staff will hang and remove banners.
Bicycles, Skateboards, Rollerblades, Roller-skates or Other Devices with Wheels
Skateboards, in-line skates, bicycles and similar devices with wheels are not permitted in Lerner Hall.
Catering
Columbia University Catering is the exclusive provider of catering services for Lerner Hall.
Commercial Activity
Only commercial activities authorized by Lerner Hall administration are allowed within the building.
Damages
Occupants, event sponsors and users are responsible for ensuring that no damage occurs to Lerner's facilities. Damage to facilities or equipment will be repaired at the expense of the responsible parties.
Decorations
Temporary decorations in meeting or event rooms and public space may be approved by the Lerner Event Management Office where conditions allow. Helium balloons are not permitted anywhere in Lerner Hall. Any damages caused by the use of decorations can result in charges to the event sponsor.
Materials, including printed materials, banners and decorations that do not follow the above guidelines or have not been approved will be removed. No decorations made from combustible materials (such as paper, plastic, cloth, etc.) are permitted to hang in Lerner Hall.
Deliveries
Personal, handheld deliveries such as flowers, take-out food, small packages, etc. may be announced at the information desk. All other major deliveries (requiring a hand truck or similar device) may be made through the delivery entrance on 114 Street. This delivery entrance is to be used between the hours of 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. There is a telephone located at that entrance to be used to notify the information desk at the time of delivery. Deliveries may be delayed or refused if not approved in advance.
Fire Safety
New York City fire code does not permit live holiday decorations, such as trees or wreaths, in Lerner Hall. Artificial greens must have certificates of flame roofing. In addition, NYC fire code does not permit open flames in the building without express written approval.
Posting Guidelines
Bulletin boards are located throughout Lerner Hall and are intended for the use of recognized University organizations and departments only. You may post announcements, flyers, and similar material in these designated areas using tacks, pushpins, or masking tape. Boards will be completely cleared of all materials each Sunday night.
Flyers, posters, or other printed material cannot be affixed to surfaces other than designated areas within the building.
Ramps Windows and Ledges
Throwing or dropping objects from ramps, windows or ledges, whether accidental or deliberate, is a severe infraction of University regulations. Sitting or standing on a window or building ledge or allowing feet and/or legs to dangle over the edge of windows, ledges or ramps is strictly forbidden. In addition, no objects, banners, or flags may be placed on ledges or allowed to hang outside of windows.
Roofs and Balconies
Only authorized University staff may access roof and balcony areas.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in any indoor area at the University that is open to the public.
Take-One Boxes
Take-one boxes are located on the 3rd and 4th floor ramps of Lerner. These locations are made available for the distribution of publications by recognized University organizations and departments.
Weapons and Hazardous Material
The possession or use of firearms such as air rifles, air pistols, ammunition or gunpowder is prohibited in Lerner Hall. In addition, the presence or use of explosive or combustible material, fireworks, knives, martial-arts weapons or other weapons considered to be dangerous is prohibited.