The New York Public Library held its Library Lions gala, run by library special events chief Kathryn Laino. The party started in Astor Hall, with dinner by Glorious Food downstairs in the Celeste Bartos Forum. Robert Isabell's decor included autumn flowers and large photos of the library. Meanwhile, outside (near a tent on the steps by Starr Tents) throngs of library employees were calling loudly for higher pay.

The New York Public Library gave its Library Lions awards to (from left to right) Philip Roth, Susan Stroman, Maurice Sendak and Rita Dove.

Before dinner, guests met in a reception in the library's Astor Hall.

Robert Isabell put blowups of photos of the library and the evening's award recipients in the Celeste Bartos Forum, which served as the benefit's dining area.

Kathryn Laino heads the library's special events staff.