The theme of National Library Week 2026 (April 19-25) is “Find Your Joy,” an invitation for library users to explore and discover what sparks joy in them at the library. In recognition of this annual celebration illuminating the vital role libraries and library professionals play in their communities, we’re highlighting some ways our users have reported finding joy within Columbia Libraries.
“I just love the libraries at Columbia. When I see these old walls, relief ceilings, chandeliers, endless tables, I imagine how many people were here before me – from different historical periods, different countries, people of different scientific interests. I feel my involvement in a huge intellectual space.”
-Undergraduate Student at School of General Studies
“I think Avery [Library] specifically feels like a magical place and invites you to study. You feel like you’re in a movie and you’re the main character. I love the design and the placement of the desks where you can have a generous personal space.”
-Undergraduate Student at School of General Studies
“I always feel warm and cozy at Burke Library.”
-Graduate Student at Union Theological Seminary
-Student at Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
“Visiting the Rare Book & Manuscript Library felt like stepping into a small museum filled with rare and valuable artifacts. The manuscripts and books seemed to come alive, almost as if they were telling stories from their time. This unique atmosphere made me feel a deep connection to history, reminding me of the power of books and physical artifacts to bridge the past and present. It’s an experience that transformed Butler [Library] into more than just a study space, it became a place where history speaks directly to you.”
-Graduate Student at School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
“The Business School librarian in Manhattanville helped me navigate all the different resources for requesting materials (books, papers, etc.) from other libraries. I wasn’t used to some of the systems unique to Columbia, and it was so helpful!”
-Graduate Student at Columbia Business School
“Uris Library has been especially impactful at helping me further my finance and economics education.”
-Undergraduate Student at Columbia College