Collections of the University Archives

The Columbia University Archives preserves the institutional memory of Columbia University from its founding in 1754 to the present-day. Among its holdings are non-current official University records and a wide variety of other materials, including the records of student organizations, materials that pertain to alumni, publications, photographs, scrapbooks, and artifacts.* The University Archives' holdings are non-circulating, and are open for research and reference use by all members of the University community and the public.

To receive the most efficient service, we recommend that you contact the University Archives before visiting.

All patrons who wish to use the holdings of the University Archives must register with photo identification. Due to the unique nature of archival holdings, the material in the University Archives is non-circulating and the patrons may only use the materials in the Reading Room. Patrons are not permitted to make their own photocopies, but digital photography of materials with a personal camera is allowed with the permission of a staff member. The University Archives reserves the right to withhold permission to access certain materials for the protection of fragile items or the confidentiality of restricted materials.

* The University Archives does not collect records from the University's Law School, Health Sciences campus, Biosphere 2, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Nevis Laboratories, Barnard College, or Teachers College, although information about those divisions and affiliates may be found among the holdings of the University Archives.