The well-read and well-heeled gathered at The Carlyle for the kickoff cocktail reception for the Literacy Partners’ annual gala: “An Evening of Readings,” at Lincoln Center. The proceeds from both events assisted the group’s efforts to teach adults and families reading, writing, and basic math skills to ensure economic independence.

In the fab flock: Gala co-chairs Liz Smith, Parker Ladd and Arnold Scaasi; guests Mary Higgins Clark, Dominick Dunne, Nancy Moonves, Christine and Stephen Schwarzman, Veronica Hearst, Betsy Gotbaum, Jonathan Farkas, Linda Fairstein, Lesley Stahl, Mike Wallace, Barbara Goldsmith, Diana Taylor, Liz Fondaras, Helen Gurley Brown and David Brown, Kitty Carlisle Hart, Rona Jaffe, Susan Magrino, Barry Diller, Carroll Petrie, Lillian Vernon, and Elaine Sargent. A guest list that’s always a page-turner!