Profile
C.V. Starr East Asian Library Berkeley CA US
The C.V. Starr East Asian Library, located at Doe Library in Berkeley, CA, opened in 2008 and serves as a premier resource for research on East Asian cultures and histories. Housing over 900,000 volumes, the library’s collection includes a vast array of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean materials, such as woodblock prints, rare maps, scrolls, contemporary political posters, and Buddhist scriptures. A notable feature is the Paul Kendel Fonoroff Collection for Chinese Film Studies, which offers unique access to cinematic works and related materials.
The library was established by consolidating the holdings of the Center for Chinese Studies Library (CCSL) and the East Asian Library (EAL), creating a comprehensive repository of East Asian scholarship. This integration ensures a unified and extensive collection, supporting academic research and public engagement with East Asian heritage. The C.V. Starr East Asian Library stands as a vital hub for scholars, students, and enthusiasts seeking in-depth resources on the region’s cultural, historical, and linguistic richness.
Location Reviews
The C.V. Starr East Asian Library at Columbia University has received seven reviews, with an overall sentiment leaning strongly positive. Commonly mentioned positives include its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, as highlighted by multiple reviewers who described it as “one of the most cosy libraries” they have ever visited. The library is also praised for its quiet environment, with one reviewer noting that it is “small but very quiet,” making it an ideal place for study. Another positive aspect is the availability of wooden chairs, which one reviewer called a “good place to study.” The library’s collection of East Asian resources, described by an anonymous reviewer as “the largest Asian collection of books outside of Asia,” is also frequently acknowledged as a significant strength.
However, a few reviews contain more neutral or negative comments. One user briefly remarked “Like shit,” though the context or intent behind this comment is unclear. Additionally, a separate note from a user mentioned an issue with the vending machine on the second floor being out of Herr’s Chips, though this appears to be a logistical observation rather than a direct critique of the library itself. These points are less frequently mentioned compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback about the library’s ambiance and resources. Overall, the reviews reflect a generally favorable impression of the library’s environment and academic offerings.