High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! The Low Memorial Library is the administrative center of Columbia University. Built in 1895 by University President Seth Low in memory of his father, Abiel Abbot Low, and financed with $1 million of Low`s own money due to the recalcitrance of university alumni, it is the focal point and most prominent building on the university`s Morningside Heights campus. The steps leading to the library`s columned facade are a popular meeting place for Columbia students, as well as home to Daniel Chester French`s sculpture, Alma Mater, a university symbol. Low Library was officially named a New York City landmark in 1967, then a National Historic Landmark 20 years later.