The Columbia Encyclopedia

'The Columbia Encyclopedia' is a comprehensive, one-volume general reference work published by Columbia University Press. It was designed to provide concise, authoritative articles covering a vast array of subjects. The encyclopedia contains thousands of entries covering history, science, and the arts.

The encyclopedia was originally first published in 1935. It was created to be an affordable and accessible alternative to the massive, multi-volume encyclopedias of the early 20th century. It went through several subsequent editions over the decades to keep information current.

The reference work went through six major editions throughout its publication history. The highly regarded sixth edition was published in the year 2000. It remains one of the most famous single-volume encyclopedias ever produced.

While print editions were widely popular for decades, the encyclopedia eventually transitioned to digital formats to keep up with the internet age. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia is now offered through online databases. Physical print production of new editions has largely ceased.