The Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library strives to provide clean, safe, and pleasant spaces to our visitors. Our goal is to have a sustainable environment that is conducive to scholarly efforts, that minimizes distractions, and that can be enjoyed equally by all Library visitors – current and future. This requires that we on the staff demonstrate care by monitoring the use of the spaces we oversee.
Location of Library spaces
All Library spaces are located in the Hammer Health Sciences Center:
- Lobby level: Knowledge Center
- LL1: Quiet Reading Room, Group Study Rooms, Individual Study Carrels
Space use
Animals
Guide and service animals for people with disabilities are welcome in the Library. For more information, see the Columbia University policy on Service and Assistance Animal Guidelines. We also host approved therapy animals in conjunction with the Student Wellness Center. All other animals must remain outside the Library spaces.
Belongings
The Library is not responsible for the security of personal property. Library visitors must keep their personal belongings with them at all times. Personal belongings may not be used to reserve a space for an extended period of time. Personal belongings left unattended for an extended period of time are subject to removal by Library staff and subsequent storage with the Public Safety department.
Cameras
Individuals, classes, groups, or organizations wishing to photograph or film facilities, staff, or users in Library spaces must first request permission from Library administration.
Cell phones and pagers
Set cell phones' and pagers' ringers to low volume or vibrate. To make or take a call, please step outside the Library space and away from other Library users. Please remember to take your belongings with you to prevent theft.
Children
Children accompanied by individuals with Library access privileges may visit the Library. It is the responsibility of the accompanying adult to ensure the child is supervised and is not disruptive. Children may not use the computers.
Computers and printers
Academic work has priority at all Library computers. Computers and printers in the Library are managed by the CUIMC IT group and fall under their usage policies. For technical support, please contact the CUIMC IT help desk.
Food and drink
- Food is not allowed in the Knowledge Center. Library staff members are charged with monitoring the space to ensure food is not being consumed at any time. Beverages are allowed, but must be in covered containers, preferably those that are spill-proof and reusable. If needed, we will remind Library visitors about food and drink rules.
- Food is allowed in the individual study carrels on LL1, LL1 Group Study Rooms, and the quiet study room LL1-112 Library Reading Room. Please make sure to keep the space clean and free of trash once you're finished eating.
Lost and found
All lost-and-found items are taken to the CUIMC Public Safety Office in the Black Building. Any personal items left unaccompanied may be considered to be lost and found.
Misuse of Library furniture, equipment, and facilities
Misuse or defacement of Library furniture, equipment, and facilities is forbidden. Misuse can be characterized by:
- Using furniture, equipment, or facilities in a way that causes damage or excessive wear (e.g., putting feet on chairs or walls);
- Using more than one seat per person;
- Using Library furniture or collections in a manner other than the intended purpose;
- Purposefully damaging materials.
Noise
The Library spaces have three noise-level designations: silent, quiet, and social. Silent spaces are characterized by no talking. Quiet spaces are characterized by respectful, low-volume speaking. Social spaces are characterized by lively conversation. Users not adhering to the noise levels of a silent or quiet space may be asked to lower their voices or to relocate to another area.
- Lobby-level Knowledge Center: quiet
- Lobby-level Knowledge Center wing: front section is social; rear section is silent
- LL1 Quiet Reading Room: silent
- LL1 Group Study Rooms: social
- LL1 Study Carrels: silent
Sleeping
Library spaces may not be used for prolonged sleeping or as living quarters. Re-arranging furniture for sleeping is not permitted.
Solicitation
Solicitation of any kind is not permitted in any of the Library spaces.
Wheeled transportation
Only equipment used by mobility-impaired patrons is allowed in the Knowledge Center space. All other types of wheeled transportation (e.g., bicycles, skates, skateboards, scooters, Segways) must remain outside of the Knowledge Center.
CUIMC Facilities operate bike racks around the Medical Center. You should find an appropriate location for your wheeled transportation on one of these maps.
Violations
Library use is a privilege. If an individual or group is not adhering to stated policies on the respectful use of the Library spaces, they may be asked to present identification, be directed to leave the Library, be reported to administrative personnel, and possibly be refused future access for a period of time. Disciplinary and legal action may be taken in accordance with applicable federal, state, city, and University laws and policies.
For more information, please contact the Health Sciences Library.
Updated 3/2024