“When you are growing up there are two institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church which belongs to God, and the public Library, which belongs to you. The public library is the great equalizer.”
— Keith Richards
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It only seems appropriate to post a photograph of rock icon - and friend to the NYPL - Keith Richards, who is featured in Patrick Harbron’s Rock and Roll Photography exhibition OPENING TODAY!!!! at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. Did you know that Keith always wanted to become a librarian? It’s true!
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‘Keith Richards Killed My Orchid’
One living thing did not survive Keith Richards’ visit to the New York Public Library in late October - an orchid in the office of Cullman Center Deputy Director Marie d’Origny. While Keef was waiting ‘backstage’ in the center before the talk, he unexpectedly lit up a cigarette in Marie’s office, and grabbed the clay saucer underneath the orchid for a makeshift ash tray. He then asked for the window to be open, sending a chill through the office. Between the cold and the smoke, the little orchid never stood a chance. RIP, sweet flower. The good news is Keith felt sort of bad about smoking in the first place and signed the “ash tray” without anyone asking (see image). So c’mon - you have to have sympathy for the devil. Meanwhile, want to cheer Marie up? Go to one of Cullman’s amazing conversations!!
