Patience and Fortitude (lions)

Patience and Fortitude are the iconic stone lion statues that stand at the entrance of the New York Public Library’s main branch. They symbolize qualities important for knowledge-seeking and perseverance: Patience representing calm endurance, and Fortitude embodying strength and courage in facing challenges. These statues serve as a reminder that learning and discovery require both steady persistence and resilience. Their presence encourages visitors to approach their studies and pursuits with both determination and patience, emphasizing the virtues necessary for intellectual growth and discovery.