He seemed a dubious savior: a short, pudgy scholar who had spent his entire professional life in academic circles. “The New York Public Library is a New York and national treasure,” he said. The New York Public Library is not a luxury. Dr. Gregorian wrote: “Richard Salomon paved the way for individual giving and business and Jewish philanthropy; Andrew Heiskell went after individuals and major corporations, his former pals; Mrs. Astor opened the doors of New York society and its philanthropy. They helped me make the case for the New York Public Library, making it a civic project that was both honorable and glamorous.”

Source: New York Times April 16, 2021 19:30 UTC