On May 27, 2014, ACRL/NY and ACRL members were treated to a free tour of the LuEsther T. Mertz Library of the New York Botanical Garden including the stacks, the Rare Book and Folio Collection and the Reading Room. Members viewed some of the earliest and most beautiful manuscripts and printed botanical and horticultural books and photographs. The staff from non-public areas such as conservation was also on hand for questions. Digitization initiatives of the library were also discussed. Members received a very informative tour of the current exhibit at the Rondina and LoFaro Gallery titled, Groundbreakers: Great American Gardens and the Women Who Designed Them. Highlights included photographs, glass slides and equipment of photographers Jessie Tarbox Beals (1870a��1942), Mattie Edwards Hewitt (1869a��1956), and Frances Benjamin Johnston (1864a��1952).A� Thanks in part Stephen Sinon, (Head of Information Services and Archives at the New York Botanical Garden Mertz Library)A�and the ACRL/NY Professional Development Committee, this proved to be a very enlightening and excellent tour.
A�~ BarbaraA�Bonous-Smit, ACRL/NY Professional Development Committee Chair