Learning Garden mission: promote nature education and social connection through accessible programming.
Why did you start a Learning Garden?
Recent surveys conducted by other area organizations, including the Cary Park District and the McHenry County Conservation District, as well as our own information gathering, have indicated the desire for more educational opportunities and connection to nature by area residents.
Expanding the Library outside and the programming we can provide is a practical benefit. But the Garden will support lifelong learning and benefit people at all stages of life. Children will benefit from early development and sensory, tactile learning; teens and adults can build skills and confidence in their abilities, build social connections, and in some cases, the opportunity to be more active. As with the success of our Seed Library, the know-how to grow your own food, help sustain the environment around you, and honor your place in the life cycle is an invaluable skill.
How is it funded?
As a special project, the Friends of the Cary Area Library (FOCAL) and grant money from the Rotary Club of Cary-Grove have provided the funds to start and maintain the garden for its first year. Maintenance of the garden going forward will be absorbed into our yearly budget, with possible further help from FOCAL and support from other local organizations.
What programs will be conducted there?
This summer, we have a few programs for children that focus on planting, growing, and maintenance. As we grow into the garden, there will be more events conducted there for all ages.
Where is it located?
You’ll find the Garden just beyond the treeline behind the building and closer to the Mallard Way sidewalk for easier access to those with strollers and in wheelchairs. Two of the six raised beds are elevated for this reason also. This year, each bed will focus on specific types of plants (fruits, vegetables, pollinator, native, etc.) to demonstrate the various types of gardens and goals.
Will there be volunteer opportunities?
There will be! Stay tuned to learn more.