Books that shape the world of ideas are essential to our understanding of society; that is why university presses are so important. Columbia University Press publishes books that effect real change but do not generate the level of revenue that commercial publishers require. Further, the majority of our books—which receive accolades from academic communities within and outside of Columbia University—are specialized and cost more to publish than their sales will support. Philanthropic funds, including gifts from individuals and foundations, are critically needed to subsidize our exceptional publications and extend our digital initiatives into the future.

Columbia University Press is a premier scholarly publisher that advances Columbia University’s global mission through the publication, translation, and distribution of books in an array of disciplines and professional programs on subjects of worldwide significance. The Press’s publishing programs also reflect the importance of its location in New York City. Columbia University Press is the fourth-oldest and sixth-largest university press in the nation.

Columbia University Press receives ongoing support from a number of organizations and private donors. Our generous donors give life to pathbreaking, influential, and enduring scholarship.

Columbia University Press gladly accepts gifts from donor-advised funds. To donate to Columbia University Press directly, please indicate “Columbia University Press” in the designation area.

For more information about giving opportunities, please contact the Development and Grants Manager, Suela Thomas, [email protected].

The annual award is given to the book that brings the highest distinction to Columbia University and Columbia University Press through an outstanding contribution to academic and public discourse.

The third-annual Columbia University Press Distinguished Book Award was awarded to Paige West for her book Dispossession and the Environment: Rhetoric and Inequality in Papua New Guinea. 

Honorable mentions were given to The Taliban’s Virtual Emirate by Neil Krishnan Aggarwal, and A Survival Guide to the Misinformation Age by David Helfand.