Elisabeth C. Miller Library: News Archive

Thousands of used gardening, horticulture, botany and landscape design books will be for sale at the Miller Library the first weekend of April. All proceeds of the sale are used to purchase the best and newest in horticultural books and journals. Original artwork from the American Association of Botanical Artists - Pacific Northwest Chapter will also be on exhibit and for sale for the entire month of April.

Be among the first to browse the books at the Wine and Cheese Preview Party on Friday, April 6, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tickets to the Preview Party are $20 each, and directly fund the book budget of the Miller Library. Enjoy a glass of wine, mingle with other gardening enthusiasts, and bid on specially selected books in the silent auction. To purchase tickets to the Preview Party, contact the Library at 206-543-0415.

On Saturday, April 7, the Book Sale will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admittance is free. Shoppers will find a wide range of topics on all things horticultural, at great prices.

The sale will take place at the Center for Urban Horticulture, UWBG, 3501 NE 41st Street, Seattle.

Val Easton Book Launch Party - Wednesday, February 1

The Northwest Horticultural Society is holding a fund-raising book launch with former Miller Library manager and well-known garden writer Val Easton will launch her newest book on Wednesday, February 1, at 6:30 pm at CUH. Val has been perfecting her floral design talents over the last forty years, and now in Petal and Twig: Seasonal Bouquets with Blossoms, Branches, and Grasses from Your Garden, she shows us how to make beautiful arrangements with what grows in our own backyards. We are grateful that Val has chosen to continue her strong support of the Miller Library by having a book launch event as a fundraiser for the library.

Val will be available to sign books, which we will have for purchase. There will be a delectable dessert buffet to enjoy, and a drawing for some choice and beautiful plants, after which Val will do a presentation on her new book.

Art Exhibit: Inspired by Nature by Scott Landry, January 3-30, 2012

Artist statement

Why do I paint?
Painting fills the need within myself to have a creative outlet of artistic expression, Which can act as cathartic deterrent to an otherwise stressed or mundane life. Color as it is effected by natural light is something that I relate to with interest. I find that painting lends itself to experimentation with color combinations when working with the landscape.

Why do I paint these subjects and themes?
I enjoy working "En Plein Air", out in the open air/on location. I'm attracted to organic forms, shapes, patterns, and colors which occur in nature, using a broader view, or "landscape", rather than a close up botanical study.

What methods do I use to create my art?
Photography as a source of capturing images for studio works. I've been exploring complimentary color under-painting to create a sense of vibrancy in my color schemes. When working with oil paint I'll sometimes use a palette knife as well as brush to create varying surface textures and visual effects.

What other expertise informs my art?
Studied botanical identification and terminology. Experience with botanical illustration, drawing and in watercolor mediums.

Hand-made Ceramics and Jewelry on Exhibit Dec. 2 - 23

Artist and graduate student Katie Murphy blends her two passions, plants and soil, in this exhibit at the Miller Library. Her latest collection is inspired by the colors of Autumn, shapes of nature and functional, beautiful ceramic forms.

Joining Katie is jewelry artist Morea Christenson of Tilt-a-girl designs. Morea has been designing jewelry since she was a little girl. Beginning with her mother's jewelry box, her passion for eye popping color and whimsical designs blossomed into a quest for creating unique, one of a kind pieces with a twist. Inspired by elements and processes in nature, Morea works with a variety of mediums, including wood, metal, shell, clay, and precious gemstones. Her newest line is blending the old with the new, transforming vintage trinkets, broches, and jewels into one of kind accessories.

Join us for a free public reception for Katie and Morea on December 2 from 5pm to 7pm.

Trees in Art Group Exhibit Oct. 5 - Nov. 23. 2011

TREES IN ART features drawings, paintings, and engravings by a group of four Northwest artists who share a deep affinity for trees. While our diverse styles and media represent a range of realistic and abstract renderings of trees, we share an interest in exploring and understanding their unifying symbolism.

Trees have long been associated with a sense of mystery, magic, strength, and wisdom. Over time and throughout history, tree imagery has been featured in myths, parables, dream theories, and art. For example, trees are often depicted as nature's gladiators whose strength enables them to continue to struggle and survive despite great odds and dire circumstances. In many cultures, trees are revered as totems of unseen forces or potent symbols of such qualities as longevity, fertility, wisdom, and immortality.

A tree-art exhibition has the potential for being of interest to both art and nature lovers. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the range in perspectives and media among the works displayed, from finely detailed drawings and engravings of individual trees to mixed-media abstractions of tree spirits and the interconnections between people and nature. Viewers who value the role of trees in an ecologically-balanced world will resonate to the importance of honoring and protecting trees because of their documented effects on positive environmental outcomes.

Ultimately, TREES IN ART aims to stimulate contemplation of both the artistic merits of trees, as well as the universal power of tree symbolism to advance our understanding of the broad, sweeping interconnectedness between people and the environment.

Union Bay Wild - Molly Hashimoto paintings on Exhibit Feb. 2 to March 24, 2011

Seattle resident Molly Hashimoto’s paintings and illustrations have been published by Pomegranate for many years. In 2012, Pomegranate will publish a calendar pairing Molly’s paintings with quotations from John Muir. She frequently visits Union Bay Natural Area in search of the wild in Seattle. She teaches for the North Cascades Institute, the Yellowstone Association Institute and the Sitka Center for Art & Ecology, believing that sharing her knowledge of painting in America’s wild places—in history and in present practice-- helps to foster a community which works to preserve our treasured parks and wilderness areas. She writes about art, nature and ideas in her blog Molly Hashimoto: Artist’s Journal at www.mollyhashimoto.com.

6th Annual Garden Lovers' Book Sale April 1-2, 2011 photo of previous book sales

Be among the first to browse the books at the Wine and Cheese Preview Party on Friday, April 1, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tickets to the Preview Party are $20 each, and directly fund the book budget of the Miller Library. Enjoy a glass of wine, mingle with other gardening enthusiasts, and bid on specially selected books in the silent auction. To purchase tickets to the Preview Party, contact the Library at 206-543-0415.

On Saturday, April 2, the Book Sale will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admittance is free. Shoppers will find a wide range of topics on all things horticultural, at great prices.

The sale will take place at the Center for Urban Horticulture, UWBG, 3501 NE 41st Street, Seattle.

Spring Ephemerals Plant Sale

Spring Ephemerals . . . and More Spring Plant Sale Event to Benefit Elisabeth C. Miller Library

Proceeds from the entire spring plant sale event will be given to the library from sale sponsors Northwest Horticultural Society — your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Saturday, March 12, 2011, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Center for Urban Horticulture, NHS Hall

FROM THE GROUND UP – QuiltArt exhibit December 2nd through January 28th, 2011.

Your garden may be dormant and the skies a little gray at this time of year QuiltArt by Nepon

but members of the Contemporary QuiltArt Association (CQA) hope you will put color in your life by coming to see From the Ground Up. This exhibit features 30 innovative quilts relating to the world of botany and horticulture. Lake Cushman is featured in changing seasons; clematis, skunk cabbage, and leaf skeletons have never looked better; and the life cycle of a plant comes alive with coffee stirrers.

We hope you will join CQA members at the free public reception on Thursday, December 2, 5 – 7 p.m. or stop by the library during regular hours to enjoy this creative work.

Special thanks to the Quilting Loft in Ballard for help promoting this exhibit.

Restricted Open Hours Resume

Because of budget shortfalls the Miller Library will resume restricted hours starting Monday, June 21, 2010.

Open hours will be: Monday: 4pm-8pm; Tuesday-Friday: 9am-5pm; Saturdays in June: 9am-3pm.

Saturday hours will be suspended for July and August and will resume September 11th.

Extended Hours for Spring 2010

Due to successful fund-raising efforts in the last year by the Northwest Horticultural Society, the Library will be open all day (9am – 8pm) on Mondays starting March 22 and continuing through June 14. Just in time for the busy spring gardening season. Thank you NHS!

5th Annual Garden Lovers' Book Sale April 2 & 3 Co-Sponsored by Northwest Horticultural Society

Where: In the Merrill Hall Commons, Center for Urban Horticulture, 3501 NE 41st St., Seattle, WA, 98195. Map.

Why: to RAISE MONEY to buy new books by selling donated books that are not needed because the library already owns a copy.

Who: YOU! The public, NHS members, students, UW community members, Master Gardeners are all invited to first donate plant related books and then come shopping on the first weekend of April.

When: The wine and cheese PREVIEW PARTY is Friday, April 2 from 5 - 8pm; tickets cost $20 in advance.
The free book sale is Saturday, April 3 from 9am to 3pm

How: DONATE your gently used plant, garden, ecology and nature related books any time the library is open, up to March 31.
To buy Preview Party ticket call 206-543-0415; Visa & Master card accepted.

Changes in the Miller Library

We are living in interesting times and the Miller Library has not escaped unscathed. Beginning this September we will need to reduce our hours, staffing, and new book purchases. A drop of 46% in the University of Washington’s endowment income is the cause for these reductions. The library is fortunate to have these UW endowments, which in good economic times provide about half of the operating budget.

Despite this news, there is still much to celebrate. There will be no lay-offs. The Miller staff reached a consensus to cut our hours by 20%, recognizing that each of us—with over 50 years of collective experience at the Miller Library— has an important and unique contribution to the care of the collections and to the services we provide to the public.

To meet the realities of reduced staffing, we will need to cut our operating hours. Starting September 14th, we will be open on Mondays only from 4:00-8:00 pm.

The rest of the week will be unchanged. Saturday hours (from 9:00am-3:00pm) will still allow access for those who work during the week. And the very successful partnership with the Otis Douglas Hyde Herbarium and the King County Master Gardener’s Clinic will continue on Monday evenings, as will special hours before NHS lectures.

Our book buying will be impacted, too. But we will continue to look for innovative ways to obtain new books, and always welcome donations.

The Miller Library has been very well looked after by the Miller Charitable Foundation, the Northwest Horticultural Society, and the contributions from many devoted businesses and individuals. The library is also increasingly in demand, with all our usage statistics up sharply over the last year. We are needed in these difficult times.
Together, we will pull through. And together we look forward to a bright future for the Elisabeth C. Miller Library.

Looking back: A History Exhibit of the Washington Park Arboretum

Edmond Meany, left, and Trevor Kincaid, University of Washington Campus Day, May 18, 1905, Photo by Asahel Curtis. Photo Courtesy University of Washington Libraries, Special Collections, A photograph by A.Curtis 06215

Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Washington Park Arboretum by taking a stroll down memory lane. Learn about turn of the (20th) century movers and shakers at UW who created the living museum we love today.

The history exhibit is in the Miller Library and runs from November 2 to December 31 at the Center for Urban Horticulture

Edmond Meany, left, and Trevor Kincaid, University of Washington Campus Day, May 18, 1905, Photo by Asahel Curtis. Photo Courtesy University of Washington Libraries, Special Collections, A curtis 06215

Book Launch: In My Nature by Connie Sidles

Join local author and avid birder Connie Sidles as she reads from her new book, In My Nature: A Birder's Year at the Montlake Fill. Reception with light refreshments. FREE and open to the public.

Art Exhibit: "To Life"
Shirley Sidell photographs

Sidell's exhibit is comprised of several series. Two groups, including images from the Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden and fern images from the artist's garden are printed on European etching paper using the Giclee method.

A lifelong gardener, the artist was formally trained in painting, stained glass, sculpture and photography at various colleges in California. She earned her Master of Fine Arts, Photography, from California College of Arts and Crafts, in Oakland.

In addition to the prints, many of the images are available on 5x7 note cards, with matching envelopes. Each print is an original and can be used as is or framed. A percentage of all proceeds benefit the Miller Library. Reception postcard.

Elisabeth Carey Miller Memorial Lecture

Roy Lancaster, world renowned plantsman and author, speaking on "Mad About Plants--A Plantsman's Garden."

6:30pm Lobby opens
7:00pm House (seating area) opens
Lecture at 7:30 pm followed by refreshments

THE LECTURE AND RECEPTION ARE FREE, COURTESY OF THE PENDLETON AND ELISABETH CAREY MILLER CHARITABLE FOUNDATION Sponsored with The Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden, The Elisabeth C. Miller Library and The Northwest Horticultural Society

Unique Botanical Portraits

David Fishman's love of horticulture and photography combines with his skills in photo restoration and graphics to create stunning photographs. His attention to detail makes his plant portraits "so realistic they jump off the page!" An avid gardener for 15 years, his photographs also reflect his love for the beautiful and unusual.

David's art will be on display at the Miller Library. The exhibit runs June 1 through July 30, 2009. Artist reception Thursday, June 4th at 5 to 7pm. Public Welcome. Postcard with more images.

Let’s look closely at vegetables and learn about how they grow. We’re expanding our family offerings this month with two programs: our regular Saturday program (focusing on planning and planting vegetable gardens) plus a Monday night story program, starring some of our favorite animal gardeners.

OLIVER’S VEGETABLES by Vivian French (SB 455 .F74 1995)
SCARLETTE BEANE by Karen Wallace (SB 455 .W24 2000)
TOPS AND BOTTOMS by Janet Stevens (SB 455 .S84 1995)
CECIL’S GARDEN by Holly Keller (SB 455 .K45 2002)
MOUSE AND MOLE IN THE YEAR-ROUND GARDEN by Doug Cushman (SB 455 .C98 1994)

Flowers are our theme this month for both storytimes. Enjoy the beauty of flowers as well as the science behind it with these fun books:

A GARDENER'S ALPHABET by Mary Azarian (SB 455 .A92 2000)
WANDA'S ROSES by Pat Brisson (SB 455 .B75 1994)
THE REASON FOR A FLOWER by Ruth Heller (QH 49 .H45 1983)
JACK'S GARDEN by Henry Cole (SB 455 .C65 1995)
THE GARDENER by Sarah Stewart and David Small (SB 455 .S85 1997)

Book Launch Party for Dan Hinkley

The Explorer;s Garden: Shrubs by Dan Hinkley

The Northwest Horticultural Society is hosting a silent auction, lecture and book signing to celebrate the new release of The Explorer's Garden: Shrubs and Vines from the Four Corners of the World by internationally renowned plantsman, Dan Hinkley. The event is a fund raiser for the Miller Library

Date: May 27, 2009
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Tickets: $35 | Benefactor $200
For reservations email or call Karin Kravitz at (206)780-8172.
Complete Information

UWBG Student Research Review 2009

Wonder what goes on in the labs of Merrill Hall or in the study plots sprinkled throughout Union Bay Natural Area? Find out at the annual UWBG graduate student research review May 8 - 29 in the Library. Want to meet the researchers? Then join us for the public reception May 8 from 5 -7pm. Light refreshments will be served.

On exhibit at the Library:
Pacific Northwest Botanical Artists

Graphite, water colors, pen and ink are a few of the mediums represented at this year's exhibit of botanical illustration by members of the Pacific Northwest chapter of the American Society of Botanical Artists. The show runs through May 2 with a portion of sales benefiting the library.
posted 4-1-200

2009 Garden Lovers' Book Sale Preview party 2009

A very big THANK YOU to everyone who helped with the book sale and preview party, all the book donors and to everyone who attended. The sale raised thousands of dollars for purchasing new books and raised awareness about the Library in the community. Save the date for next year: April 2nd and 3rd!
posted 4-6-2009

4th Annual Garden Lovers' Book Sale

Find a good home for your gently used gardening books: donate them to the Miller Library for our biggest fund raising event of the year. Save the date: April 3 for the preview party and April 4, 2009 for the free public sale.
posted 12-10-2008

Drought Tolerance -
Mixed Media Botanicals
by Lisa Snow Lady

Seattle artist, Lisa Snow Lady, attained a BA with majors in Fine Art and Art History and subsequently a BFA in painting from the University of Washington. Her love of botanical form and recent studies in Horticulture and Landscape Design from Edmonds Community College are reflected in her mixed media prints and paintings.

Lisa's art will be on display at the Miller Library. The exhibit runs February 2 through March 31, 2009. Artist reception Wednesday, March 11 at 5 to 7pm. Public Welcome. posted 1-5-2008

"Botanical Illustration: Art Meets Science" Exhibit at Suzzallo Library

SAVE THE DATE! Preview Party on April 3, Public Sale on April 4

The book sale is the biggest fund raising event of the year, but the success depends on YOU. Here's how you can help:

Through an Artist's Eye

Botanicals by Louise Smith
Art exhibit runs January 5 through 30, 2009.
Artist reception Friday, January 16 at 5:30pm to 7. Public Welcome

Award winning artist Louise Smith is a master of botanical illustration. With a careful eye for honest detail Louise creates stunning, life like illustrations of flowers, herbs, fruits, mushrooms and insects. posted 12-10-2008

Images of the Washington Park Arboretum

Come view the work of certified arborist and gardener Stephanie Jeter. For years, Jeter has used photography to capture the forms and foliage of the Arboretum's plants. The images reveal Jeter’s deep affection for the Arboretum, on public display for the first time.

Join us for the artist's reception on Friday, November 7, 2008 from 5:30pm to 7. Postcard.
posted 10-31-2008

Welcome back UW Students!

Start your research on the Student Tools page and please don't hesitate to ask library staff for help.

The Library Program Room, just opposite of the reference desk, is for YOU. Use the room for group projects or practicing a presentation. The room is free, but reservations are strongly encouraged.
posted 9-24-2008

ELISABETH CAREY MILLER MEMORIAL LECTURE

“Landscape in a Changing Environment” by KATHRYN GUSTAFSON

Landscape architect Kathryn Gustafson will discuss various elements that influence her world-renowned landscape designs. Some of her well-known completed projects as well as current projects by her two firms—Gustafson Porter in London and Gustafson Guthrie Nichol in Seattle will be featured.

Meany Hall for the Performing Arts at the University of Washington
Near the intersection of 15th Avenue NE and NE 40th Street

THE LECTURE AND RECEPTION ARE FREE, COURTESY OF
THE PENDLETON AND ELISABETH CAREY MILLER CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
Sponsored with
The Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden
The Elisabeth C. Miller Library and The Northwest Horticultural Society
posted 9-1-2008

Saturdays at the Library

It's back to school time and the Miller Library is now open on Saturdays from 9am to 3pm. Whether you need help with a school science project or designing a new garden bed, the library staff can help you find answers.

Plant Detectives Story Time

Being a plant detective takes curiosity and careful observation. Take a look at the books we'll read on Saturday, September 20:
10-10:45 AM
posted 9-8-2008

CUH Images: from Soest Garden to Shoveler's Pond

For years, volunteer Larry Howard has used his camera to capture the spectacular and the subtle at CUH. Come find vistas and views you've never seen during his photo exhibit at the Miller Library.

Growing vegetables? We can help.

Brunch at Ciscoe's

We are pleased to extend an invitation from the Northwest Horticultural Society and Ciscoe Morris for brunch. Proceeds benefit the NHS endowment fund for the library.
posted 6-13-2008

Introducing: Pajama Stories

Put the kids in their pajamas and join us for a few bed-time stories on Monday evenings at 7:00pm. Our regular Saturday morning stories move to Monday evenings for the summer.

On July 14th Librarian Laura Blumhagen will share the tale of the sleepy seed and the wonders of growing plants. On August 11th we'll hear about the creatures who swim in the hot summer and the cold winter.

Work in Progress: Student Research Exhibit

Come learn about the latest research taking place at the UW Botanic Gardens and beyond by ecology graduate students. Opening reception 5 to 7pm on May 9th. Show runs until July 3.
posted 5-7-08

Library Closed

The library will be closed Tuesday, June 10th for the annual UWBG Staff Day Out. posted 6-2-2008

Finding Gardening Answers

The Miller Library makes it easy to get answers to all sorts of gardening questions:

Book Sale Success

Thank you to everyone who helped make our third annual benefit preview party and book sale a smashing success.
posted 4-8-2008

From Amaryllis to Zinnia, we’ll be talking about an array of flowers today, with a special focus on sunflowers. Come find out how to grow a sunflower house!

THE FLOWER ALPHABET BOOK by Jerry Pallotta and Leslie Evans (SB 455 .P25 1998)
SUNFLOWER HOUSE by Eve Bunting and Kathryn Hewitt (SB 455 .B86 1996) posted 6-6-2008

Announcing the new NHS Curriculum Collection

The Northwest Horticultural Society awarded the Library a $2,500 grant in autumn 2007 to plan and purchase a curriculum collection. The Miller Library currently has a Children’s Collection of some 400 lending books for kids ranging from pre-school to high school. The goal was to expand the collection with more books and other materials to help local educators develop plant-focused curriculum.

Now complete, the NHS Curriculum Materials Grant adds 72 items to our collection, including curriculum guides, storybooks, field trip planners, garden design manuals for parents, field guides, and more. This grant doubles the size of our Parent/Teacher Resource collection, and more than doubles its usefulness.

The additions also support the educational programs of the UWBG, including the Seedlings Preschool and Saplings School programs at the Washington Park Arboretum, which reach 5,000 children a year.

While focusing on a classroom setting, these books would also provide excellent methods for parents or other family members in teaching about plants and nature, or simply enjoying the garden with their children. Very exciting!

A sampling of the new titles:

Botanical Art on Display

The American Society of Botanical Artists Pacific Northwest Chapter will be exhibiting original works of art until May 4. Artist statements.
posted 4-8-2008

Book Launch Party

Join us as we celebrate Professor Linda Chalker-Scott's new book: The Informed Gardener. Book sale proceeds benefit the Library.
Thursday, 24 April at 7pm in NHS Hall at the Center for Urban Horticulture (3501 NE 41st St., Seattle)
posted 3-20-2008

Garden Lovers’ Book Sale – and Botanical Art Exhibit & Sale

Wine and Cheese Preview Party and Book Sale:
Friday, April 4th from 5:00 – 8:00 PM; Tickets: $15

Book Sale: Saturday, April 5th from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Free Admission

Thousands of used gardening, horticulture, botany and landscape design books will be for sale at the 2008 Garden Lovers’ Book Sale on April 4th and 5th at the Elisabeth C. Miller Library, the premiere horticultural library in the Pacific Northwest and library for the University of Washington Botanic Gardens. All proceeds of the sale are used to purchase the best and newest in horticultural books and journals.

As an added bonus, this year’s sale will coincide with an exhibit and sale of new works by members of the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the American Society of Botanical Artists. The library will double as gallery to display the recent work of several excellent local artists working in various media.

Be among the first to hunt for that special gardening book at the Wine and Cheese Preview Party and Sale on Friday, April 4th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Enjoy a glass of wine, mingle with other gardening enthusiasts, and bid on specially selected books in the silent auction. Tickets to the Preview Party are limited and on sale now at the library for $15 each.

On Saturday, April 5th, the Book Sale is from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admittance is free. You’ll find a wide range of topics on all things horticultural, at great prices. Cash, checks, Visa and MasterCard will all be accepted.

The Miller Library is located at the Center for Urban Horticulture, 3501 NE 41st Street, Seattle. For book sale information and to purchase tickets to the Friday evening Preview Party, visit the Elisabeth C. Miller Library or phone: 206-543-0415.
posted 2-15-2008

New Computers

Thanks to a grant from the College of Forest Resources Dean's Office on the recommendation from the CFR Resources Committee the Library now has two new computers for public and student use for a total of four public access computers.
posted 3-5-2008

Wanted: gently used gardening books

This major fund raising event builds our book buying budget, turning your donation into new books for the whole community.
Clean off your shelves to make room for new purchases! We'll take your gardening, plants, and design-related books. And sorry, we can’t accept any more magazines!
posted 1-15-2008

Curriculum Collection Complete

A very big thank you to the Northwest Horticultural Society for awarding the Library a $2,500 grant to plan and purchase a curriculum collection. The new books are currently on display in the library and available for check-out.
posted 12-18-2007

Winter 2008 Story Times

Funding News

The Miller Charitable Foundation has awarded us a $16,000 grant to organize our archives to comply with the UW Archives standard. The Curator of Horticultural Literature, Brian Thompson, will lead the development of collection policies, storage solutions, finding aids and access technology.

The Miller Library currently has a Children’s Collection of some 400 lending books for kids ranging from pre-school to high school. Our goal is to expand the collection with more books and other materials to help local educators develop plant-focused curriculum.

The new curriculum materials will include step-by-step guides to student projects and activities, worksheets and sample study plans, selected readings for students, and tools for teacher’s to evaluate learning. Other media will also be considered, including models, posters, movies, music, and games.
posted 12/18/2007

Winter Exhibit – "Cut, Dried and Dyed" Jenny Craig's Pineapple

Visit the Miller Library during January and February to see the artwork of Jenny Craig, local botanical artist and librarian. Using natural dyes and dehydrated plant matter, she creates surprising and delightful prints and displays which afford a new way of seeing familiar fruits and vegetables. In Jenny’s words, “It’s flat fruit. It’s neat. I like it because it’s like looking through a window into the internal structure of the object.”

Jenny holds a Masters in Library and Information Science from the University of Washington, and a Master of Fine Arts in Book Arts and Printmaking from Philadelphia’s University of the Arts.
posted 12/03/2007

Book Signing to Benefit the Miller Library Dec. 17

Local tree expert, Arthur Lee Jacobson will be signing his books: Trees of Seattle and Selected Writings of Esiquio Narro, which he edited. The books will be for sale. Net proceeds of the sales of the Narro book will be donated to the Miller Library.

Esiquio Narro, a Mexican-American who lived half his life in Seattle, loved to ponder, talk, write, and garden. The book represents the very best of his vast collection of writings that touch on subjects as far ranging as American culture, love and the human spirit, growing up in Mexico, and seasons in the garden. Books may also be purchased from the publisher's website.
posted 12/03/2007

"Four Seasons at the Bloedel Reserve" Photo Exhibit in the Miller Library

The Bloedel Reserve, a Pacific Northwest treasure, as captured by the photography of Richard A. Brown will be on display October 18 - December 15. More info (pdf)
posted 10/17/2007

Special Open Hours - Fall 2007

13th Annual Miller Memorial Lecture

Aberglasney House garden director Graham Rankin will lecture on "The Most Beautiful Gardens in Wales" on November 1 at 7:30 in Meany Hall, UW. Request your free tickets by calling 206-362-8612 or by email.

The lecture is co-sponsored by the Miller Library, Miller Garden and the Northwest Horticultural Society. Invitation and complete information (pdf).

See a Display Celebrating the Linnaean Tercentenary

The key books recording his works and life will be on display at the library, along with specimens of plants he named from the Otis Douglas Hyde Herbarium, posters of Swedish postal stamps created in his honor, and the Linnean Medal, won by UWBG director David Mabberley in 2006. A concurrent display of books and other materials from the Linnean Society will be on display at the Seattle Public Library's Central Branch. Both displays will be available for viewing through mid-October.
Annotated Booklist

Three Programs on Linnaeus

Dr. Magnus Lidén, Director of Uppsala Botanic Garden and the Linnaeus Garden, will be speaking on the life and contributions of Carl Linnaeus, considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of botany.

Popular science writer and researcher Dr. Peter Ward is Professor of Paleontology, Biology and Astrobiology in the Earth & Space Sciences Department at the University of Washington, and the author of Under the Green Sky: Global Warming, the Mass Extinctions of the Past and What They Can Tell Us About our Future (HarperCollins, 2007). His program will present surprising conclusions about species survival under current climate change patterns and future warming predictions. Book sales and signing following lecture. Presented in cooperation with The Elliott Bay Book Company.

Apple Stories Story Time

WHEN: Saturday, October 6th at 10 am
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 8 & their parents
COST: Free!

Can you imagine having your own apple tree? Arnold does, and he visits it throughout the year to watch it change with the seasons. We’ll learn how apples grow and discuss different ways to eat them. After the stories, join us in the program room for a hands-on activity presented by our guests, the King County Master Gardeners.

Focus Your Search

Looking for information on the best strawberries for the Northwest or what native plants grow in bogs? Try our new Northwest Horticulture Custom Search. This Google powered search only searches web sites selected by our staff that offer high quality, reliable information with a Northwest focus. posted 7/10/2007

New Section for Teachers & Parents

Have you browsed our Children’s Section recently? If so, you may have seen the newly formed PARENT/TEACHER RESOURCE COLLECTION. Parent/Teacher materials have a green dot below the yellow label that designates all Children’s Section books. These may be curriculum materials on ecology, parents’ guides to gardening with kids, or any other materials designed for adults who work with children and plants. Most of these books were already part of our collection, but we hope you will find and use them more easily now that they are no longer intermingled with the children’s books.

This change will also give us space to expand the Parent/Teacher Resource Collection over the next few years. We would love to hear your feedback! posted May 19, 2007

Custom Search Engine for Invasive Plant Information

Wouldn't it be great to search the top invasive plants databases and nothing else with one search engine? Now you can. The Miller Library has created a Google Custom Search Engine that only searches librarian selected, major web sites and databases from the US government and conservation organizations. This "multi-site" search is a collection of 14 leading sites dedicated to understanding, managing and eradicating invasive plants. posted 5/31/2007

New books added to the Collection

Many new titles were added to the collection in April, the majority the result of a very large gift of books from George Waters, long time editor of Pacific Horticulture Magazine. A few recently published books include:

Weeds and Seeds Story Time

WHEN: Saturday, June 16th at 10 am
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 & their parents
COST: Free!

Seeds are the main way many plants make new plants. Let’s look closely at seeds and learn more about them. We’ll also visit the topic of what makes a weed a weed, as well as consider the advice of Miss Rumphius: “do one thing to make the world more beautiful.” posted 5/14/2007

Most Popular Book Lists in April

New additions to the Book List Collection

The Real Dirt on Soil Story Time

WHEN: Saturday, May 12th at 10 am
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 & their parents
COST: Free!

Is soil just dirt? What can soil do? Who lives there? Let’s find out more about soil so we’re ready to get our hands dirty this summer! After the stories, join us in the program room for a hands-on activity presented by our guests, the King County Master Gardeners. posted 4/7/2007

Resource Spot-Light

Historic botanical literature is now much more accessible thanks to the effort of the Missouri Botanical Garden Library. Botanicus.org is a growing digital collection of 182 titles from as far back as 1480 that is completely searchable. posted 4/14/2007

Garden Lovers' Book Sale
Huge Success

Thanks to everyone who came to the second annual Garden Lovers' Book Sale. Over $10,000 was raised over the two-day event, which will support the Miller Library's book budget. The staff of the Miller Library enjoyed visiting with old friends and seeing so many new faces this year! We hope you'll all visit the Miller Library often. And we've already scheduled next year's sale! Mark you calendars for April 4th and 5th, 2008. posted 4/9/2007

Birds! Story Time

WHEN: Saturday, April 7th at 10 am
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 & their parents
COST: Free!

Join us for two very different stories of birds (one very small, the other quite large) that help us see the beauty of birds and their connections with our gardens. After the stories the Master Gardeners will lead an activity. posted 3/15/2007

Garden Lovers' Book Sale Set for April

Thousands of used gardening, horticulture, botany and landscape design books will be for sale at the 2007 Garden Lovers’ Book Sale on April 6th and 7th at the University of Washington Botanic Gardens’ Center for Urban Horticulture. The sale is a major fundraiser for the Elisabeth C. Miller Library, the premiere horticultural library in the Pacific Northwest. All proceeds of the sale are used to purchase the best and newest in horticultural books and journals.

Be among the first to hunt for that special gardening book at the Wine and Cheese Preview Party on Friday, April 6, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tickets to the Preview Party are $15 each, and benefit the book budget of the Miller Library. Enjoy a glass of wine, mingle with other gardening enthusiasts, and bid on specially selected books in the silent auction. You’ll be able to browse and buy to your heart’s content, and support the Miller Library in the process! Tickets to the Preview Party will be available for purchase at the library beginning March 1st.

On Saturday, April 7, the Book Sale will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admittance is free. Stock your shelves with gently used gardening books and find inspiration for your own garden. You’ll find a wide range of topics on all things horticultural, at great prices. Cash, checks, Visa and MasterCard will all be accepted.

The sale will take place in the Commons of Merrill Hall, Center for Urban Horticulture, UWBG, 3501 NE 41st Street, Seattle. For book sale information and to purchase tickets to the Friday evening Preview Party, contact the Elisabeth C. Miller Library at 206-543-0415.

We’re looking for a few good books!
The Miller Library is accepting book donations right up until the book sale. Clean off your shelves to make room for new purchases! Gardening, plants, and design-related books only, please. And sorry, but we can’t accept any more magazines! posted 1/15/2007

Book Launch and Fundraiser for the Library Big Success.

photo of Jack Henry, Val Easton and Richie Stephens 2007

The staff of the Miller Library would like to extend our most sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the March 6th NHS Fundraising Event such a success! It was a wonderful party and lecture, the proceeds of which will be a great contribution to the NHS Endowment Fund for the library.

We'd especially like to thank Ann LeVasseur and Barbara Asmervig, the brains behind the evening's event; Lynn and Ralph Davis for once again donating such marvelous wines for the festivities; Karin Kravitz for making sure logistics ran smoothly; and of course, Val Easton for donating her time and considerable talent. Thanks to all who attended; your continuous support of the Miller Library is greatly appreciated! posted 3/8/2007

Marsh Madness Story Time

WHEN: Saturday, March 10th at 10 am
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 & their parents
COST: Free!

Pull on your rubber boots for stories about squishy, muddy, damp and mucky wetlands and the creatures who live there. After the stories the Master Gardeners will lead a fun activity.

Hidden Gems – Undiscovered Pacific Northwest Plant Books

On February 28th, Brian Thompson, Curator of Horticultural Literature at the Elisabeth C. Miller Library, shares his personal favorites from the many books by lesser know PNW authors, both present and past, in the UW Botanic Gardens Miller Library collection.

From field guides to garden guides, these titles will inspire you as a reader and a plant lover. Selections range from the thoughtful “Walking in the Beauty of the World” by Bothell botanist Joseph Arnett, to the offbeat charm of Vancouver Island resident Des Kennedy in “Crazy About Gardening”. Linda Beutler will make you enthusiastic about clematis and everything else she grows in her Portland garden, while John Grant’s “Naturalistic Character” approach to garden design still resonates as it did in 1954. Native son George Schenk now gardens with friends around the Pacific Rim, by contrast Ian Taylor left England to find fun in Seattle as “The Naked Gardener” These and much more will be on the table.
posted 1/23/2007

Plant Answer Line at the NW Flower & Garden Show

Stop by the UW Botanic Gardens booth (#2350) at the flower show and ask library staff a plant or gardening question. We'll use our micro-library on wheels to find the answer. Plant Answer Line will be open 9am to 1pm Wednesday-Sunday and 9am to 5pm on Thursday.
posted 2/6/2007

Cooking from the Garden Storytime

WHEN: Saturday, February 10th at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

Nothing beats the aroma of simmering vegetable soup on a chilly February day—except perhaps a delicious apple pie in the oven for dessert. Join us for stories, where we’ll meet characters who grew their own fruits and vegetables for the kitchen. Stories will be followed by an activity with the Master Gardeners. P osted 1/8/2007

Juuki Iida Scroll at Miller Library

On August 8, 2006, at a dedication ceremony in Merrill Hall at the UW Botanic Gardens, Richard and Fumi Yamasaki of Seattle donated to the Miller Library a scroll brushed by landscaper Juuki Iida while he was in Seattle installing the rock work in Washington Park’s Japanese Garden during the spring of 1960. The scroll is housed in the library’s Special Collections Room, and is available for viewing by appointment. Read more
posted 1/23/2007

Plants through the groundhog graphic

Year Storytime

WHEN: Saturday, January 6th at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

It's a new year! How does Groundhog grow a garden? With a little help from his friends. Join us for stories of how plants change through the year followed by an activity with the Master Gardeners.
posted 12/19/2006

Fresh New Look for the Web

The library staff has been working in recent weeks to bring the site up to modern web standards of accessibility and ease of use. The redesign also makes our best content, such as the catalog of books and Gardening Answers knowledgebase, searchable right from the home page. While the site architecture is essentially the same, some pages have moved. Automatic redirects should send browsers to the right page, but if that fails our site map and friendly "404 Not Found" page should help users find what they're looking for.

The Story of the Apple on Sale at Library

Co-authored by UWBG Director David Mabberley and Barrie Juniper, University of Oxford. Published by Timber Press.

"The Story of the Apple reveals the solution to a long-standing puzzle. Where did the apple come from, and why is the familiar large, sweet cultivated apple so different from all other wild apple species with their bitter, cherry-sized fruits?" From earthquakes in Tian Shan, to the eating habits of bears and horses, to the multiple virtues of cider, The Story of the Apple describes the fascinating history of one of America’s favorite fruits.

Copies of the book are available for $32 (includes sales tax) at the Miller Library. $16 of every book sold directly benefits the library's book budget. Cash and checks only. For more information, please call the Miller Library at 206-543-0415.
posted 8/22/2006

Invasive Species in the Pacific Northwest Book Launch

Monday, November 20 Invasives Species cover image

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
University of Washington Botanic Gardens
Center for Urban Horticulture

The University of Washington Press and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens cordially invite you to celebrate the publication of Invasive Species in the Pacific Northwest, edited by UW professors Dee Boersma, Sarah Reichard, and Amy Van Buren, Ph.D. candidate in biology.

The U.S. government defines invasive species as "an alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health." Invasive Species in the Pacific Northwest describes these species, how they got here, and the effects of their invasions on the region's environment. Each of 108 invasive species of fish, plants, invertebrates, mammals, and birds - including earthworms, domestic cats and pigs, blackberries, European fruit flies, Japanese eelgrass, Mediterranean mussels, rats, and terrestrial mollusks - is described in a 2-page spread that includes a full-color photograph of the species, a map showing the species' presence in the region, and much more.

The evening will include a talk by the editors, followed by a reception and book signing. Books will be available for purchase at the event.
For more information, call the Miller Library at 206-543-0415.
posted 11/04/2006

Library Open for NHS Wednesday Night Lectures

The library will stay open until 7:00 P.M. on evenings when there is a Northwest Horticultural Society lecture scheduled:

Harvest Stories Storytime

WHEN: Saturday, November 4th at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents Boy harvesting corn

COST: Free!

See the bounty of the autumn garden. Come listen to true and imagined stories of the harvest. Garanteed to make your mouth water! After the stories, join us in the program room for an activity designed by our guests the King County Master Gardeners.
posted 10/20/2006

Apple Book Launch Event The Story of the Apple

Make plans to join David Mabberley and the staff of the Elisabeth C. Miller Library for the North American launch of The Story of the Apple. Professor Mabberley will talk about his long association with Barrie Juniper and the writing of the book. An autograph signing will follow; copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event, the proceeds of which will benefit the Miller Library. For more information, please call the Miller Library at 206-543-0415.
posted 8/22/2006

LOVELY LEAVES Story Time Oak Leaves

WHEN: Saturday, October 14th at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

As the leaves change color and drop down where we can see them better, we begin to think about them more. Why do some leaves stay on the tree while others drop? What makes leaves change color? What happens to a leaf after it falls? Come learn and imagine with us.

2006 Elisabeth Carey Miller Memorial Lecture Great Success

Over a thousand plant enthusiasts turned up Thursday night at UW's Meany Hall to hear Peter Valder speak on the Romance of Chinese Plants.

Limited quantities of Peter Valder's books, Gardens of China and Garden Plants of China will be for sale at the library until September 28th. Proceeds from the book sale benefit the Elisabeth C. Miller Library.
posted 9/14/2006

2006 Elisabeth Carey Miller Memorial Lecture

Peter Valder's love affair with Chinese gardens has taken him into beautiful and secret places. You won't want to miss this entertaining and informative lecture!

The Miller Lecture and Reception are free and funded by the Pendleton and Elisabeth Carey Miller Charitable Foundation. Reservations accepted after Monday, August 7. To reserve tickets, phone the Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden at 206-362-8612 or email your RSVP to info@millergarden.org. Tickets will be mailed in confirmation of your reservation.

Copies of Peter Valder's books, Gardens of China and Garden Plants of China will be available for purchase in the lobby of Meany Hall before and after the lecture. Proceeds from the book sale to benefit the Elisabeth C. Miller Library.
posted 7/20/2006

Story Time is back!

TREES ARE TERRIFIC
WHEN: Saturday, September 9th at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

What do trees do for us? What do we do for trees? Our stories this month are all about observing and watching trees. After the stories join us for hands-on activities with the Master Gardeners.

Lewis and Clark Book and Herbarium Voucher Display

In celebration of the bi-centennial anniversary of explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, The Miller Library and the Hyde Herbarium have assembled a display of books and preserved plant specimens featuring Northwest plant exploration and ethnobotany. The library wishes to thank donors Larry Howard and Nancy Winder for their generous contribution to purchase material focusing on plants documented by Lewis and Clark. A list of the books purchased from their gift is linked below. Examples of a few plants discovered by Lewis and Clark, such as Bear Grass and Western Red Cedar, are also on display from the herbarium collection.

NEW! Summer Hours

The library will begin its summer schedule on Saturday, July 1. We will be open on Saturdays from 9 - 3 in July this year, so plan to stop in and check out our collection! As in past years, the library will be closed on Saturdays in August. Weekday hours will remain the same throughout the summer.

posted 5/15/2006

UWBG Staff Day Out June 14th

The library will be closed all day on Wednesday, June 14th for an all UWBG staff retreat.
posted 6/06/2006

It's A Jungle Out There! Storytime Kapok Tree

WHEN: Saturday, June 10th at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

Learn about The Great Kapok Tree, and explore young Wesley's new civilization in Weslandia, as we venture into the jungle. Color a rain forest picture to take home and enjoy some tasty snacks! This will be the final storytime before summer. Watch this site for new programs beginning in September!

May Flowers - Story Time flower picture

WHEN: Saturday, May 13 at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

What's blooming now? Come hear about Wanda and her Rose Bush - the bush nobody thinks will bloom. Enjoy the beauty of flowers as well as the science behind it in three great books. You can even check out books to take home! After the stories: Join us in the program room for a program designed by our guests, the Master Gardeners. Explore Seeds and Flowers Kit with hands-on activities: "Herbie the Seed" puppet, examining different varieties of seeds, etc.

Book Sale was a Big Success!

Thanks to everyone who supported the Miller Library at our Garden Lovers Book Sale. We raised nearly $8,000, which will be used to buy new books for the library. Special thanks to the Northwest Horticultural Society for hosting the Friday night Preview Party, to Ann LeVasseur and Pat Riehl for planning a marvelous event, to Charles Pember and Ralph Davis as our official "pourers," and to Ralph and Lynn Davis for donating the wonderful selection of wines. The Friday night silent auction raised $900 for our book budget, and Preview Party ticket sales generated $800 to benefit the NHS Endowment Fund. Watch this site for next year's book sale dates!

Karen L. Preuss, Library Manager
posted 4/20/2006

GARDEN LOVERS BOOK SALE at the Elisabeth C. Miller Library

Wine and Cheese Preview Party and Sale
Friday, April 14, 2006
5 – 8 p.m.
$15 admission

Hosted by the Northwest Horticultural Society
Admission benefits the NHS Miller Library Endowment Fund
Tickets can be purchased at the Miller Library

Hundreds of gardening and landscape design books! Come search for treasures and stock your shelves! Proceeds from the book sale will augment the Miller Library’s book budget, so we can keep buying great new books for your reading pleasure.

The sale will be held in the Commons at Merrill Hall,
University of Washington Botanic Gardens, 3501 NE 41st Street.
For more information, please call the Miller Library at 206-543-0415.
posted 3/22/2006

EAT YOUR VEGETABLES - Story Time

WHEN: Saturday, April 8 at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

Let's look closely at vegetables and learn about how they grow. Hear a funny story about tops and bottoms, problem solve with Cecil, and experience the joy of discovery with Oliver. After the stories: What part of different plants do we eat? Take a close look and find out!

Seeds and Sprouts! Story Time for March.

WHEN: Saturday, March 18 at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!
How do plants make seeds? How do seeds sprout? What is the Reason for a Flower and what do bees have to do with it? Kids will have fun exploring this fascinating topic through stories and a hands-on activity. After the stories: Come to the program room and plant a seed to take home

Learn to Research in the Elisabeth C. Miller Library

Interested in the latest research on compost tea or controlling powdery mildew? Librarian Tracy Mehlin will demonstrate how to search the periodical literature and remove some of the mystique. You will get to know several powerful databases used to search the periodicals. Bring a question of your own to research.

Wednesday, March 15, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $12; pre-registration required, call 206-685-8033.
posted 2/22/2006

Heronswood Nursery's 2006 Hellebores and More

$7.50 admission fee benefits the Miller Library at the University of Washington Botanic Gardens. Stroll, shop, and attend presentations by Heronswood co-owner Dan Hinkley.

For more information, please contact the Elisabeth C. Miller Library at (206) 543-0415 or Heronswood Nursery at (360) 297-4172 www.heronswood.com

Posted: 1/25/2006

Story Time: Plants Gone Wild!

WHEN: Saturday, February 18 at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

Think plants are mild and meek? Think they just sit there doing nothing? WRONG! Come hear about the HAIRRAISING tale of Plantzilla, the plant who grew and grew and the boy who took her home for the summer. Join us for stories and make wild collage art afterwards.

A Place to Take Root

The first exhibit devoted to the evolution of the common flower pot --- will be presented by the Northwest Horticultural Society at the Northwest Flower and Garden Show February 8-12, 2006. Renowned Connecticut potter Guy Wolff and Seattle potter John Weber will demonstrate their art form live during selected show hours.

Local garden designers will display decorated contemporary containers showing stark contrast between historical and modern, old and new.

For further information please see Northwest Horticultural Society
Posted: 12/28/2005

Notecards for Sale

Developed for the Library's 20th anniversary, this set of twelve note cards has covers with images from the library’s collection of early 20th century gardening catalogs. Sets are $15 each. Special thanks to the Northwest Horticultural Society for selling the cards for us. They are available at the library desk and all proceeds benefit the Miller Library.

Twenty Years Old and Still Growing

The Elisabeth C. Miller Library just celebrated its 20th anniversary. Located in a fabulous new facility, the future looks bright. Help the library celebrate and grow in its ability to expand resources and services.

Another way to help the library grow and prosper is to click on the Donation button on the library's home page. It takes you to the UW Foundation web site where you can donate online using a credit card.

To all our supporters, we thank you for your continued enthusiasm and generosity.
Posted: 5/26/2005

SNOWY DAY STORIES

WHEN: Saturday, January 21 at 10 a.m.
WHO: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
COST: Free!

Even though it's dark and dreary outside, and you might think spring will never get here, there's still a lot of fun to have indoors and out! Join us for some snowy days stories, and make a winter card for someone you love!

Posted: 1/6/2006

WILDLIFE IN WINTER Storytime

When: Saturday, December 10 at 10:00 a.m. Paw print

Who: Kids ages 2 to 7 and their parents
Cost: Free

When the weather turns cold and there’s snow on the ground, what do the birds, squirrels, and other wild animals do for food and warmth? Join us at the library for stories about the animals in forests and our own backyards, and color a picture to take home!
Posted: 12/6/2005

Coming soon, Pacific Northwest Connections

The Miller Library will soon be presenting Pacific Northwest Connections, bringing together all our books dedicated to the Pacific Northwest and related climates. The rearranged layout and collection flow will create an ideal setting for both in-depth research and leisure reading. To effect these changes, the library will be closed for two staff work days on Tuesday, November 22 and Wednesday, November 23.
Posted: 11/2/2005

Harvest Stories

WHEN: Saturday Nov. 19 at 10am.
WHO: Kids age 2 to 7 and their parents.
COST: Free.
It's Apple Season! Where do apples come from, how do they grow? Do green apples taste better than red apples? What about yellow apples?
Join us for apple stories, harvest stories and the tale of the Leaf Man who blew away. We'll make art with apple stamps and have a taste test to find the best tasting apple.
Posted: 11/12/2005

New Index Makes Garden Periodicals More Accessible

The Miller Library is now subscribing to an index database of garden periodicals called the Garden Literature Index. This is the premier resource for accessing articles about plants and gardens focused on environmentally sustainable horticulture and design practices. It includes academic as well as popular journals and magazines with over 300 titles. Whether you are a student, working professional, researcher or avid garden enthusiast, you can track down abstracts for many titles, some of which date back more than a decade. You can use the index from any of the library's public computers by clicking on the icon on the desktop.
Posted: 8/26/2005

Pumpkin Stories at the Miller Library
WHEN: Saturday Oct. 29 at 10am.
WHO: Kids age 2 to 7 and their parents.
COST: Free.
“Pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin pies …” Rebecca Estelle hates pumpkins! Find out what happens when a giant pumpkin lands - SPLAT – in her yard in Too Many Pumpkins. Learn all about pumpkins at the Miller Library’s first ever story time, with silly stories, fun crafts and tasty treats celebrating our favorite fall vegetable.

You can even check out a pumpkin story or two to read at home! This is the first in a new, monthly series of family programs at the library. Stay tuned for more information on programs coming up in November and December. Posted: 10/10/2005

Explore the Miller Library Children’s Collection

DATE & TIME: Tuesday, Oct. 11, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
INSTRUCTOR: Miller Library Staff
LOCATION: Miller Library, CUH
FEE: $10; pre-registration required.

The Elisabeth C. Miller Library’s Children’s Collection is a treasure trove of curriculum materials,garden plans and plant-related books for children of all ages. The library staff will highlight some of the library’s very best educational resources. This class is aimed at parents and teachers, and will be tailored to the needs of the participants.

Address Drought Conditions with Water-wise Practices

You don't need an official drought declaration to know that summer gardening conditions are typically dry and thirsty. Everything you ever wanted to know and now need to know to use water wisely yet still have a glorious summer garden can be found by clicking on the link above. From tools and water management devices to lists of drought-tolerant plants and practical timely advice, the information you need to make it through the coming summer is easily available through the Elisabeth C. Miller Library.

Miller Library Now Open in the New Merrill Hall

The Elisabeth C. Miller Horticultural Library is now open regular hours to the public in the newly built Merrill Hall at the Center for Urban Horticulture (CUH) at the UW. Come in and see all the new features from the terrific view to comfy reading chairs to the latest in movable compact shelving. We have a special corner for children complete with soft cushions and a library collection geared for young gardeners.

Debra Prinzing’s New Book for Northwest Gardeners

Think of the new Debra Prinzing paperback book, Pacific Northwest Garden Survival Guide, as the greatest and best reality show a Pacific Northwest gardener could find. Intensely pragmatic and locally focused, she knows the geography, climate, soil, mood and attitudes of gardens and plants in the area. Prinzing, a Master Gardener, promotes “gardening from the ground up” and the best means to tackle our changing environment and make the most of what nature has so generously provided. From tips on managing pests and invasive plants to understanding soil, making best use of limited water and “going native” with plant selection, her direct and easy style makes this slim paperback an indispensable tool. To check it out, visit the Miller Library or you can order a copy via her web site www.debraprinzing.com/books.php.
Posted: 5/6/2005

Treasures of the Miller Library, a lecture by Professor David Mabberley

CUH, WPA, and the Miller Library invite you to enjoy a lecture by Professor David Mabberley, welcome him as new director, and celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Miller Library on the occasion of the return of the rare book collection. The UW Special Collections Library housed the heart of the Miller Library’s collections ever since the devastating fire of four years ago. Professor Mabberley has extensive knowledge and a considerable personal collection of many early horticultural and botanical works. Several of the treasures will be on display in the Miller Library before and after the lecture.

DATE & TIME: Sunday, May 22, 2005 Rare Book Preview at 6 p.m., Lecture at 7 p.m. with reception following.
LOCATION: Center for Urban Horticulture, 3501 NE 41th St.
FEE: $10 suggested donation at the door. RSVP by phoning 206-685-8033.
Posted: 4/20/2005

New Viewing Equipment at the Library

The NHS Furnishing Fund has provided the Elisabeth C. Miller Library with the equipment to preview video tapes and DVDs. There is a new handsome flat screen TV along with a VCR and a DVD recorder.

While most of the audio visual materials at the library are video, we are planning to expand the collection of DVDs. Please contact the library if you have any horticulture or garden activity DVDs you would like to donate. Posted: 4/1/2005

Spring Time Is Weed Time

The annual spring battle to conquor weeds in the lawn and garden has begun. Be sure to stop by the Elisabeth C. Miller Library to see the exhibit of noxious weed and invasive plant specimens and the library resources to manage them. Wendy DesCamp of the Douglas Hyde Herbarium and Martha Ferguson, library specialist, assembled the display. A visit to the library is a great way to arm yourself with up-to-date information on combating uninvited garden visitors. Posted: 3/18/2005

The library is hosting a juried show of botanical art sponsored by the Pacific Northwest chapter of the American Society of Botanical Artists. The display will be featured through February 19. Posted 1/28/2005

2003-2004 Annual Report

The fiscal year for 2003 - 2004 was a momentous one for the Miller Library. Read about the activities and accomplishments in our just published annual report linked above as a .PDF file.

Special note:
Our most sincere apologies go to Pat and Walt Riehl. In the printed version of this report recently mailed their names were inadvertently dropped off the list of contributors who gave more than $1,000 during the year. Pat, as president of the NHS and as chair of the auction committee, was instrumental in raising the $200,000 goal for the furnishing of our wonderful new facility. We deeply appreciate the Riehls ongoing support of the Miller Library. Posted: 12/20/2004

Search for Order in the Universe – of Libraries

The library’s move into expansive new quarters will make access to its resources easier than ever. A great way to gain a thorough overview of the library is to take the two-part series featured as part of the CUH Outreach program. Seeking information Order, Books, offered on Wednesday, March 9, 2005, will focus on making best use of the library’s catalogue including books and videos; a new user interface gives the catalog a fresh look and better lists of resources and different kinds of information. Seeking Information Order, Periodicals will be taught on Wednesday, March 16, 2005, and is a repeat of a popular fall quarter class on getting the most information possible from the library’s list of periodicals. Whether you are a student doing research, a professional seeking visuals or solutions or an amateur planning a new garden, these tools can make your search more satisfying and enjoyable. Call 206-685-8033 to register. Posted: 12/16/2004

Updated Book Lists!

Our new booklists have a fresh look and reflect recent additions to our catalogue.

Watch for new booklists on “Garden Construction”, “Green Roofs and Rooftop Gardens”, and “Bulbs”—coming soon!

News Archive

What's New Blog Archive

7th Annual Garden Lovers' Book Sale April 6 & 7