Rare Book and Manuscript Library

Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Manhattan NYC

The Rare Book & Manuscript Library (RBML) at Columbia University Libraries stands as a premier destination for researchers, scholars, and enthusiasts seeking to engage with primary source materials in Manhattan, NYC. Located within the university's historic campus, this distinguished library houses one of the nation's most comprehensive and diverse collections of rare books, manuscripts, archives, and special collections, spanning millennia of human history and creativity. [1]

As a vital component of Columbia University's extensive library system, the RBML serves as a cornerstone for advanced research and teaching across a vast array of disciplines, including literature, history, philosophy, religion, science, and the arts. Its holdings encompass an extraordinary range of materials, from ancient cuneiform tablets and medieval illuminated manuscripts to early printed books, significant literary archives, historical documents, and the personal papers of influential figures. [1] [2]

Visitors to the Rare Book and Manuscript Library can explore materials that offer unique insights into pivotal moments and movements. The collections are particularly strong in areas such as American history, British literature, printing history, papyrology, and the history of science and medicine. [2] Researchers delve into original manuscripts by renowned authors, examine historical correspondence that shaped political and social landscapes, and study rare editions that represent milestones in printing and publishing. The library's commitment extends beyond preservation to active engagement, facilitating access for scholarly inquiry and educational programs. [1]

Access to the collections is typically provided through dedicated reading rooms, where materials can be consulted under secure conditions. While primarily serving the Columbia University community, the RBML welcomes visiting researchers from around the world, underscoring its role as a global resource for primary source research. [1] [2] The library's expert staff provides invaluable assistance, guiding users through the collections and supporting complex research projects. Through its extensive holdings and dedication to scholarly access, the Rare Book & Manuscript Library in Manhattan remains an indispensable institution for exploring the tangible records of the past.

AUTHORITATIVE SOURCES
[About the RBML]↩
[Collections Overview]↩