Columbia Law School has unveiled the newly renovated Li Lu Law Library — a $15 million transformation made possible by the largest single donation and most significant capital investment in the school’s history.
The 50,000-square-foot library spans three floors of Jerome L. Greene Hall and was redesigned by Perkins Eastman to meet the evolving needs of modern legal education. It now features sweeping views of Revson and Ancell plazas, a two-story reading room, 600 study seats, reservable group spaces and advanced technology throughout.
Li Lu, a Columbia alumnus, provided the lead gift, joined by contributions from more than 50 alumni and friends.
“When I first met with Dean [Daniel] Abebe last fall and learned about his ambitious vision for the Law School, I was deeply inspired,” Lu said. “As our conversations continued, I felt I had the opportunity with the law library to enable something transformative — a space that aligns with how legal scholarship and learning are evolving.”
Born in China, Lu grew up during the Cultural Revolution and was a prominent student activist who helped lead the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989. Soon after, he was invited to speak about his experiences at Columbia, where he later enrolled. He went on to become the first Columbia University student to earn three degrees simultaneously.
“Li Lu’s gift is an unprecedented investment in the student experience and ensures that Columbia Law School will continue to attract the most talented students and scholars, providing them with unparalleled resources for success,” Dean Abebe said.
Lu hopes having the library bear his name will resonate with people, including those who may find inspiration from his story.
“It means a great deal to me that Asian American students might feel proud seeing an Asian name so visibly tied to the Law School, reflecting the diversity that makes this place special,” he said.
