Each year, The New York Public Library proudly recognizes several esteemed individuals for their exceptional contributions to the fields of arts, culture, letters, and scholarship, bestowing upon them the distinguished title of Library Lions at the illustrious Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Among the esteemed honorees in years past are luminaries such as Laurie Anderson, Margaret Atwood, President Nelson Mandela, Steve Martin, Martin Scorsese, Zadie Smith, Gloria Steinem, Darren Walker, Oprah Winfrey, and a host of other notable figures.
Since its inception in 1981, the annual Library Lunch has served as a gathering of minds, uniting captivating speakers and the Library’s closest allies within the breathtaking confines of the Celeste Bartos Forum, beneath its iconic glass dome at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. This cherished tradition not only celebrates the richness of literature and culture but also serves as a vital platform for raising indispensable funds in support of the Library’s mission to foster lifelong learning, advance knowledge, and fortify communities.
The New York Public Library’s annual Library Lions Gala and Library Lunch stand as beacons of philanthropic excellence, crucially bolstering the Library’s network of 92 neighborhood locations, dynamic educational initiatives, and renowned research collections that serve as invaluable resources for scholars, writers, artists, and students alike. Through unwavering support of this event, patrons ensure that the Library’s extensive collections, diverse programs, and essential services remain readily accessible, extending the gifts of knowledge, education, and opportunity to all.