If you're missing NYC during Winter Break: Favorite Places to Study outside of Columbia University

Although Lehman Library is the default, and perhaps easiest, place to study for SIPA students, thereare plenty of other spaces to explore throughout the City. Sometimes it’s great to get out of Morningside Heights and make the trip to other neighborhoods. Below is a list of some of my favorite places to study off campus. 

1. Rose Main Reading Room - The Rose Main Reading Room is located in The New York Public Library in midtown Manhattan, and the trip is well worth it! Generally speaking, the NYPL is a must see for anyone visiting New York for the first time. However, one of the best things about the library is the Rose Main Reading Room, after years of renovations, it has finally been reopened to the public. High ceilings and plenty of light make it the ideal place to study for midterms and finals (plus you feel like you’re at Hogwarts – an added bonus!). The library is divided into two sections: an area where tourists can walk around and take photos, and an area designated for quiet studying.

2. Coffee Shops in the West Village - The West Village is easily accessible via the 1 train from Columbia University and in addition to it being a great area to explore, there are a lot of coffee shops where you can sit and do some work. A few personal favorites include Rebel Coffee on 8th Avenue and Stumptown Coffee Roasters on 8th Street.  Both of these locations have plenty of seating and are great to catch up on notes. However, they tend to get very crowded in the midafternoon on weekends, so getting there early is essential.

3. The New York Society Library - The New York Society library is one of New York City’s oldest cultural landmarks, and though only members are able to check out books and have full access to the building, the first-floor reading room is open to the public. This is a great, quiet place to study, though it’s located on the east side, the cross town bus makes it easily accessible from Columbia University.

4. Sheep Meadow - Sheep Meadow Is located on the west side of Central Park, from 66th to 69th Street, it is a great place to study during the warmer months. During the summer, residents flock to Sheep Meadow to sunbathe, have picnics, and enjoy the New York City skyline. The area is open from April to Mid-October and is a great place to catch up on reading and do some studying. Don’t forget to bring a blanket!

Feel free to share your own favorite locations below!