41 Stunning College Campuses You Can Visit Without Being a Student

By

Lisette Marie

June 18, 2025

6. Columbia University's Butler Library: A Literary Icon

Butler Library, Columbia University's largest single library. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @JSquish

Columbia University's Butler Library isn’t just a hub for students—it's a literary landmark that visitors can admire both inside and out. The building’s grand neoclassical facade is instantly recognizable, but what truly sets it apart is the stunning reading rooms filled with thousands of historic books. While the underground archives remain off-limits, visitors can step inside the main areas to appreciate the soaring bookshelves, marble columns, and hushed atmosphere of one of the country’s most prestigious academic libraries. Whether you're a book lover or an architecture enthusiast, Butler Library is a must-see stop on Columbia’s picturesque campus.How to Visit: The Butler Library lobby and select reading rooms are open to visitors, and the exterior is a popular photo stop for campus tours.

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