Friends of the UNCG Libraries

The Friends of the UNCG Libraries recently celebrated the completion of the project to revitalize the landscaping in front of Jackson Library and its return to being one of the most often-photographed spots on the campus.  Sixty-three donors gave to make the project a reality.  Thanks to everyone who made it possible.

Visitors to Jackson Library from the College Avenue side of the building through the portico entrance will notice some changes this summer.  Installation of the new landscaping is to begin Friday, July 19, and is expected to be largely completed by the end of July.   The Board of Directors of the Friends of the UNCG Libraries announced a special initiative at the annual dinner in the spring to revitalize that landscaping. "The Library has traditionally been a photogenic centerpiece, and we want to return it to that status," said board member Laura Tew.   With Board approval and financial support, award winning UNCG Grounds Manager Chris Fay commissioned Christine Russell of New Earth Design to craft the proposed landscape design to incorporate sustainability principles, including:   * minimal demands for water and fertilization;   * food and protection for local songbirds; and   * minimal upkeep requirements.      The Jac...

The Board of Directors of the Friends of the UNCG Libraries recently announced a special initiative to revitalize the landscaping in front of Jackson Library. “The library has traditionally been a photogenic centerpiece, and we want to return it to that status,” said board member Laura Tew. With Board approval and financial support, UNCG Grounds Manager Chris Fay commissioned  Christine Russell of New Earth Design to craft the proposed landscape design to incorporate sustainability principles, including: •         minimal demands for water and fertilization; •         food and protection for local songbirds; and •         minimal upkeep requirements. The Jackson Library portico facing College Avenue will be accentuated by Graham Blandy boxwood, dwarf Burford hollies and Kay Paris magnolias. The Yoshino cherry & Jane magnolia trees will be highlighted ...

The Portico Entrance to Jackson Library grew brighter and more beautiful in December, when a local garden company donated violas to create two large beds on either side of the stairs leading into the building from College Avenue. The flowers are the gift of  High Performance Flowers , which operates at the Colfax Farmer's Market off Sandy Ridge Road during the growing season.  After a conversation with a customer who also works in the University Libraries, Michael Turner, UNCG class of 2005, and the company owner, Branson Davis, class of 2000, decided to donate some their flowers for us to enjoy.  Michael, in particular, says he used to spend a lot of time in our library when he was in school, and was happy to work with Branson to arrange this gift to us.   Thanks for giving back, gentlemen. Thanks also to Kevin Siler, Jeff Hawkins, Chris Fay and our other groundspeople for preparing and planting the beds for us. Photo by Carolyn Shankle ...