Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design

Graduating with Honors

The approach to the botanical garden library system focuses on incorporating the emotional, physical and intellectual development of each patron as they work through the program from birth to old age. This concept of learning originated with the Reggio Emilia approach used in school settings. The design works to engage the visitor at the level they are comfortable with, yet they can flow in and out of each educational area at their own comfort levels. The flexibility of the space allows the librarians to share information that broadens the patron's experience in botany from basic to beyond. The base of their knowledge may be as simple as a daisy, but from there an individual of any age can experience exponential educational growth as they continue to participate with each library sector advancing their version of the daisy to the next level. Once the individual has found a space to engage in, it is up to the facility and staff to provide fertile ground to facilitate learning and deepen the roots of attachment the patrons will experience to the Botanical Gardens as a whole. The library will then become an integral structure within the NYBG that enhances communication, community and educational growth for generations to come.