LuEsther T. Mertz Library, The New York Botanical Garden

The LuEsther T. Mertz Library is a research library at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx, featuring buff-gray brick walls, terracotta decorations, and a striking dome crowning its central pavilion. It houses hundreds of thousands of botanical texts and millions of plant specimen records available to scholars working in botany, horticulture, landscape design, and environmental studies.

The library was founded in 1899 with an initial collection of 2,500 volumes, immediately strengthened by the addition of 5,000 books from Columbia College's botanical collection. This foundation allowed it to develop into one of the most important centers for botanical research.

The building draws researchers from around the world who work in botany and garden design, making it a hub for scholars interested in plant science and environmental conservation. Visitors can observe how this space functions as a meeting point for professionals engaged in advancing botanical knowledge.

The library offers both digital resources and physical materials for researchers and visitors to explore during their time on the grounds. Plan to spend adequate time browsing the collections, and check opening hours ahead of your visit.

The Fountain of Life, designed by Carl Tefft in 1905, stands at the entrance with sculpted figures on a granite pedestal. This feature near the Tulip Tree Allee gives the arrival at the building a special quality.

Location: The Bronx

Inception: 1900

Part of: New York Botanical Garden

Phone: +17188178604

Website: https://nybg.org/learn/mertz-library

GPS coordinates: 40.86667,-73.87889

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:09