The steps of the New York public library are guarded by what animals (in statue form)?

The grand entrance to the New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building on Fifth Avenue is famously flanked by two majestic stone figures. These iconic guardians, instantly recognizable to New Yorkers and visitors alike, are magnificent lions. They have stood watch over the library's steps for over a century, silently welcoming millions of patrons through its historic doors.

More than just decorative sculptures, these impressive felines are beloved symbols of the city and even have names. The lion on the south side is named Patience, while the one on the north is Fortitude. These monikers were bestowed upon them by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia during the Great (Review) Depression. LaGuardia felt that New Yorkers would need both patience and fortitude to overcome the economic hardships of the era, and he saw the lions as enduring symbols of these virtues, embodying the spirit of resilience.

Carved from pink Tennessee marble by sculptor Edward Clark Potter, with their architectural setting designed by Carrère and Hastings, the lions were unveiled along with the library itself in 1911. They have witnessed countless parades, protests, and everyday moments, becoming an indelible part of New York City's landscape and cultural identity. Their stoic presence continues to inspire, reminding all who pass by of the enduring power of knowledge and the strength found within the community.