LuEsther T. Mertz Library
New York Botanical Garden, Bronx
One of New York's treasures, the Mertz Library is on the grounds of the New York Botanical Garden. This stately building is home to one of the world’s largest collections of books and materials about plants.The Library's mission is to "promote the intelligent stewardship of the natural world by collecting and preserving works of merit in botany, horticulture and landscape design." The outstanding collections represent over a century of commitment to botanical and environmental research.

At the Mertz Library, you can pore over everything from field notes from 19th-century gardeners to vintage seed catalogs, and flower illustrations that are centuries old. The entire library is free to access, although you must be a NYBG member to check out books. Many of the Mertz’s rare treasures have been digitized and are available online. The Library is also a significant contributor to the Biodiversity Heritage Library, a huge online initiative that makes images of plants and animals available to the public without copyright restrictions.

Miranda's mindfulness series has been so well received she will continue it in August! You are welcome to join at any time. After the July introductory sessions, she has chosen the theme "Connecting with Nature for Physical and Emotional Wellness."

Mindfulness can be defined as “paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the  present moment, and non-judgmentally.” In this series, mindfulness practitioner Miranda Lee teaches participants how to live a more mindful life and equip them with the tools they need to help build resilience against the challenges of day-to-day life. Some gentle movement (no special clothing or equipment required) will be incorporated into the course. This course is offered from 9:00-10:00 a.m. on Fridays before the Library opens to the public. Please register here.

Miranda Lee received training from Mindful Schools, a non-profit organization which trains educators to bring mindfulness into schools and community spaces. Although mindfulness is a an ancient practice coming from Eastern contemplative traditions, Miranda offers a secular and inclusive approach.

Click here for More Information About The Norfolk Library : Night Owl - July 29, 2022