Under The Celestial Skies of The New York Public Library’s 2025 Library Lions Gala

Up the grand candlelit steps of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, in the Beaux-Arts environs of Astor Hall, impeccably dressed guests gathered for The New York Public Library’s 2025 Library Lions Gala. For the first hour, champagne was passed under the high-vaulted ceilings as conversation encircled the critical role the library plays. One of the most spectacular nights on the city’s philanthropic calendar, the Library Lions Gala’s second act directed attendees into the Deborah, Jonathan F.P., Samuel Priest, and Adam R. Rose Main Reading Room for a flavorful three-course dinner. Amidst decor inspired by the room’s celestial skies ceiling murals, painted by James Wall Finn in 1911, NYPL president Anthony W. Marx bestowed this year’s honors upon Bruce Springsteen, Shonda Rhimes, Daniel Kehlmann, James McBride, James Patterson, and Louise Erdrich. The Boss then regaled guests with a surprise live performance of “Thunder Road,” before dazzled diners returned to the monumental marbled lobby for the Young Lions after party. This year marked the first with Montblanc as marquee sponsor. “It’s an honor to be associated with such an event,” Sylvain Costof, president of Montblanc North America, told Surface, “we have a lot in common with the New York Public Library, including an understanding of the power of writing and what it can bring.” This is a continuation of Montblanc's partnership with the library, which began in 2023 with educational initiatives like Summer at the Library.