Chicago Botanic Garden shares rare books with visitors Sunday

Cicero said, “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” If that's the case, Waukegan Public Library patrons can fulfill all their needs in one afternoon during Waukegan Public Library Day at the Chicago Botanic Garden, from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 3. The event will include a garden tour and private viewing of the rare books collection housed at the Lenhardt Library, located in the Regenstein Center on the Chicago Botanic Garden grounds.

At the Lenhardt Library, patrons will hear a gallery talk titled “Rare Seeds, Creative Harvest: Artist Books Inspired by the Rare Book Collection” and view botanical books, periodicals, poetry and artwork dating back to the 17th century. Featured books include John Gerard's “Herball,” published in 1636, including 1,800 woodcuts of various plants and a compendium of their medical “vertues” or properties.

Admission to the rare books collection is available to adults only. Chicago Botanic Garden staff will hold a special program for children during the rare books viewing. Afterward, guests may explore the gardens at their own pace from 2:30-4 p.m.

Each registered family will take home a complimentary seed packet, courtesy of Renee's Garden, and a discount coupon for a Chicago Botanic Garden Membership. Guests who present a Waukegan Public Library card at the gate will also have parking fees waived.

Waukegan Public Library cardholders can sign up for the event online at waukeganpl.org or by visiting the library, or calling (847) 623-2041.

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