The chair of Columbia University firmly criticized the occupation of a campus library after over 100 protestors targeted it, resulting in multiple arrests and injuries to university personnel on Wednesday.
In a statement, the chair described the situation as “totally unacceptable,” following a series of chaotic events at Butler Library that evening.
A large group of demonstrators entered the library in the afternoon, continuing calls for the university to sever ties with Israel.
The protests caused considerable disorder, occupying a main reading area and damaging property while bypassing building entrances.
More than 80 individuals were arrested during this storming of Butler Library, which occurred as students crammed for finals.
“These actions not only breach university policies but also threaten the safety of our students and the campus,” the chair remarked.
She noted that she had visited the library amidst the unfolding events and felt disheartened, especially seeing security officers being treated for injuries.
The reading room experienced “smears and damage along with intrusive slogans,” which further dismayed her.
“There’s no place for violence, vandalism, or taking over libraries at Columbia. These actions are not reflective of our values,” she stated.
She emphasized that such behavior would not be tolerated at the university.
Shipman, who recently assumed her position after leadership changes, reiterated Columbia’s rejection of anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination.
She praised the actions of faculty and police, describing their response as “orderly and professional,” focusing on students who were hesitant to leave the library.
As Columbia entered a designated study day ahead of final exams, she expressed frustration over the unnecessary stress and threats posed to students studying in the library.
The incident prompted a reaction from New York Mayor Eric Adams, who declared support for Jewish students on campus, warning that protestors would face consequences if they did not disperse.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is also monitoring the situation to determine the immigration status of those arrested during the protests.
Columbia has been a focal point for anti-Israel demonstrations since the onset of Hamas’s attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, which has led to heightened tensions and rising concerns about anti-Semitism on campus.
