Fifth Avenue Plaza

Alison Stewart: The library’s facade is one of Fifth Avenue’s wonders. It provides a grand and romantic background for events both ordinary and extraordinary. These steps play host to many from New York City and beyond—locals meeting up with friends, workers taking a quick coffee or lunch break, tourists snapping photos, protesters speaking out for their causes, and countless others. The facade has witnessed it all: victory parades, rallies for equality, and somber moments of uncertainty. In the unfolding drama of New York City, the Schwarzman Building has provided a gathering place for all.

The library’s entrance is bookended by two fountains adorned with allegorical figures: Beauty to the south and Truth to the north. They represent the higher goals of learning that visitors are encouraged to pursue within.

As you approach the entrance you can’t help but appreciate the classical architectural style often invoked in Beaux-Arts design. It’s distinguished by ornament—think back to the style of the early Greeks and Romans. The facade is home to quite a cast of characters. Every time you look, you will see something—or someone—new. For example, up above the entrance are six figures.

Keith Glutting: These represent various aspects of literature that you’ll experience when you’re entering the building.

Alison Stewart: The New York Public Library’s Keith Glutting.

Keith Glutting: The sculptures are by Paul Wayland Bartlett, and they depict, from left to right: History, Romance, Religion, Poetry, Drama, and Philosophy.

Alison Stewart: Architect Liz Leber.

Liz Leber: The building was certainly designed to be a welcoming but monumental entrance. There is this sense of procession up the great stairs, into the great formal bronze doors with the names of the donors who established this free library above in that pediment, etched into the stone.

Alison Stewart: Those names, John Jacob Astor, James Lenox, and Samuel Tilden, were three financially successful New Yorkers whose private collections, dedication to literary interests, and funds were the seeds that grew into today’s New York Public Library. Quite a legacy.