A new exhibit, From Seed to Sanctuary: Native Gardening in the Midwest, opened on the first floor of Harold Washington Library Center on March 13, 2026. Through vibrant paintings and real seed samples, From Seed to Sanctuary explores our region’s indigenous plants and how to grow them.
Curated by Tara Preston, From Seed to Sanctuary invites visitors to explore the hidden power packed inside every seed and discover how they shape our native prairies, home gardens, and future landscapes.
The exhibit shows how to collect seeds responsibly in nature, how to identify them by shape and texture, and the best ways to store them for planting. The exhibit also explains gardening zones and offers simple steps to start growing a thriving native garden right here in the Midwest.
Patrons can experience hands-on learning through touchable seed displays and colorful paintings that bring each native flower to life. Whether curious about helping monarch butterflies or looking to transform a backyard into a floral sanctuary, patrons can learn how small seeds can grow into big change for both people and nature.
From Seed to Sanctuary will be on display in the Ida B. Wells corridor at Harold Washington Library Center from March 13 to May 3, 2026.