University horticultural staff have begun re-landscaping the front of Harlan Hatcher Graduate Library to improve safety for library patrons and staff and to conserve the stately trees flanking both sides of the entrance. University landscape architects developed the new design.
Overgrown, woody shrubs surrounding the six Douglas fir and two Carolina silver bell trees will be removed and replaced with groundcover, low hedge, perennials and annuals, explains Douglas W. Fasing, manager of Grounds and Waste Management Services.
The woody shrubs, in which a person can easily hide, pose a security risk for library users and staff, note Gayle E. Ackley, University Library business manager, and Sgt. David A. Betts, Department of Public Safety (DPS) crime prevention supervisor.
DPS is concerned about any situation where people can conceal themselves for criminal activity, Betts explains.
Removing the shrubs, which are competing with the firs and Carolina silver bells for nutrients, will help the larger specimen trees remain vigorous, Fasing says.
Some passersby who like the library approach the way it has been for many years may initially be disappointed in the new look, Fasing says. However, he thinks most members of the University community will be pleased with the safer, more colorful landscaping plan.
Mums will be planted this fall. Other plantings, including perennials and annuals, will be added next spring.
The front of the Graduate Library “will be in great shape by spring commencement,” Fasing says.
