Statement by Columbia University Facilities and Operations Regarding Low Library Flagpoles

Yesterday’s severe winds broke the upper portion of the flagpole located on the west side of Low Library flying the American flag. The extent of the damage, coupled with the flagpole’s age, made repair unfeasible and consequently, the entire structure had to be removed for safety purposes. Given the age and condition of the twin flagpole located on the east side of Low Library that flies the Columbia flag, that flagpole was also removed as a precaution.

These flagpoles are an important part of the fabric of our campus and Facilities and Operations, in collaboration with our historic preservation team and other key stakeholders across campus, is committed to replacing these flagpoles as swiftly as possible. While lengthy material lead times necessitate that this replacement process will extend into the summer months, we are actively working on a plan to install temporary flagpoles adjacent to the original locations of each flag.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to maintain these important symbols of our university's heritage.