Arthur Gelb facts for kids

Arthur Gelb (born February 3, 1924 – died May 20, 2014) was an American editor and writer. He worked for The New York Times newspaper for many years. From 1986 to 1989, he was the managing editor. This means he was in charge of how the newspaper was put together each day.

Arthur Gelb's Career at The New York Times

Arthur Gelb started working at The New York Times in 1944. His first job was a "copy boy." A copy boy helped deliver messages and papers around the office. He worked the night shift, which means he worked late at night.

Moving Up in the Newspaper World

Arthur Gelb worked very hard and moved up to many different jobs at the newspaper. He worked in several departments. He made a big impact in the drama department. This department focused on plays and theater.

Writing About Plays and Books

Arthur Gelb really loved the plays written by Eugene O'Neill. O'Neill was a famous American writer of plays. Arthur Gelb and his wife, Barbara Gelb, wrote a book about O'Neill's life. It was called O'Neill: Life with Monte Cristo.

He also helped support the New York Shakespeare Festival. This festival puts on plays by William Shakespeare for free. Arthur Gelb wrote articles in the newspaper to support the festival's founder, Joseph Papp.

Arthur Gelb also helped edit other books. One book he edited was called "Great Lives of the Twentieth Century."

Retirement and Later Work

Arthur Gelb retired from The New York Times in 1989. He was the managing editor when he retired. In 2003, he wrote a book about his own life and time at the newspaper. It was called "City Room." A "memoir" is a book where someone writes about their own memories.

After he retired, Arthur Gelb became the president of The New York Times Company Foundation. This foundation helps support different causes. He also directed The New York Times College Scholarship Program. This program helps students pay for college.

Arthur Gelb's Family Life

Arthur Gelb and his family lived in New York City. He and his wife, Barbara Gelb, had a son named Peter Gelb. Peter Gelb is now the General Manager of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. The Metropolitan Opera is a famous place where opera shows are performed.

When Arthur Gelb Passed Away

Arthur Gelb passed away on May 20, 2014. He was 90 years old. He died at his home in Manhattan, New York.