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The Stories, Science, and History of Trees w/Smithsonian

Gardens Greenhouse Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming

2025-04-08 13:00:00 2025-04-08 14:00:00 America/Chicago The Stories, Science, and History of Trees w/Smithsonian Smithsonian Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming, guides us through the secret world of trees as is revealed in the beautiful and absorbing guide to the giants of the plant world. Please Register Virtual -

Tuesday, April 08
1:00pm - 2:00pm

Smithsonian Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming, guides us through the secret world of trees as is revealed in the beautiful and absorbing guide to the giants of the plant world. Please Register

Trees occur naturally throughout the world and have been a part of human history for almost as long as humans have existed. Used for shelter, tools, fuel, and food, they also help supply the atmosphere with oxygen and form astonishingly diverse ecosystems, as well as some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Now the intricate world of leafy woodlands and abundant rainforests is revealed in this extensive visual guide to trees, exploring their key scientific traits and their ecological importance, as well as their enduring significance in human history and culture. From ancient oaks and great redwoods to lush banyans and imposing kapoks, The Tree Book reveals the anatomy, behaviors, and beauty of these incredible plants and habitats in detail. 

Combining natural history and a scientific overview with a wider look at the history, uses, symbolism, and mythology of trees, this book is a new kind of guide to these fascinating organisms. Register today to learn more about the beautiful world of trees!

About the Presenter: 

Matthew Fleming has been a horticulturist at the Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Facility in Suitland, Maryland since 2010. In addition to serving as a supervisory horticulturist, he manages three greenhouses with nearly a thousand tropical specimens that are displayed throughout the many Smithsonian gardens and landscapes along the National Mall during the warmer months. He has given talks on a wide variety of plant-related topics at the Smithsonian ranging from indoor pests to overwintering tropical plants.  Prior to coming to the Smithsonian, Matt was a purchasing agent and garden center assistant manager for a full-service landscaping firm.  He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences where he studied Horticulture and Landscape Contracting. 

Please Register for link to program.


Live Virtual Author Talks - This new series through Library Speakers Consortium offers live online talks by bestselling authors of books in a variety of genres. Participants receive a link to the program when they register. Please see https://libraryc.org/gailborden to register and also view recorded videos of past speakers.

AGE GROUP: | Virtual Live | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | Virtual | Nature & Science | Adult Programs |

TAGS: | |

Virtual

Phone: 847-742-2411

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About the Branch

Programs presented virtually through FB, Zoom, YouTube, and other online sources.

Upcoming Events

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Wed, Aug 12, 9:00am - 9:00pm
Main Library
Explore our changing planet through a different lens, immerse yourself in incredible ecosystems and learn how the smallest of actions can have a big impact on our natural world.

Wed, Aug 12, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Main Library - Rotunda
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s staff will be available to discuss and assist with federal issues you and your family are facing.

Wed, Aug 12, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Main Library - Meadows Community Rooms ABC
Join us to explore violins and violas! Learn how they sound and feel, and try the instruments. Open-house style, stay a few minutes or longer. Best for ages Preschool through Adults.

Wed, Aug 12, 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Main Library
Join us as we gently dust the books of our extensive Genealogy Department! Please meet us near the 2nd floor Genealogy Department.

Wed, Aug 12, 3:00pm - 3:45pm
Mobile Services
373 Summit St, Elgin, IL 60120

Wed, Aug 12, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Mobile Services
161 W River Rd. Elgin

Wed, Aug 12, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Main Library - Studio 270
Teen volunteers will use looms to knit hats and scarves for those in need. Training will be provided from 4:00–4:30 PM. For teens in grades 6-12 who have completed a Teen Volunteer Orientation.
Registration is now closed

Wed, Aug 12, 4:45pm - 5:45pm
Mobile Services
Clifford Ave. Elgin

Wed, Aug 12, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
In The Community
St. Francis Park - 277 Jefferson Ave, Elgin, IL 60120

Wed, Aug 12, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Main Library - Studio 270
Join us for an exciting journey into the world of Dungeons & Dragons! No experience is necessary; we can teach you how to play.
This event is full

Wed, Aug 12, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Mobile Services
Wing St. Elgin - Front Lot

Cancelled
Wed, Aug 12, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Main Library
The Walking Book Club meets weekly on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm to walk. The book discussion is on the final Wednesday of the month at 7:45pm.

Wed, Aug 12, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Main Library - Computer Training Room
Learn how to identify the working parts of a computer, assemble & disassemble components and perform basic repairs in this two-part, hands-on series.
Registration is now closed

Thu, Aug 13, 9:00am - 11:00am
Main Library - Lobby - Piano
Piano performance in the lobby by volunteer community members.

Thu, Aug 13, 9:00am - 9:00pm
Main Library
Explore our changing planet through a different lens, immerse yourself in incredible ecosystems and learn how the smallest of actions can have a big impact on our natural world.

Thu, Aug 13, 9:30am - 11:30am
Main Library - Computer Training Room
Get help with common tech issues like Microsoft Office, using a tablet, hotspots, syncing email with your phone, downloading content, and more. Drop in for personalized assistance at your library.

Thu, Aug 13, 10:00am - 11:00am
South Elgin Branch - South Elgin - Hoffer Meeting Room
Learn how to install/uninstall programs and apps, change settings, use the task manager, and control updates in Windows 11.
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Thu, Aug 13, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Main Library - Sally Lee Fox & Eagle Rooms
Grab a pencil and some art supplies and we'll draw and write our way to a great story! Do you think you can write a story with just 10 words? Let's try using an accordion book. Registration required.
Registration is now closed

Thu, Aug 13, 11:30am - 12:00pm
In The Community
The book bike will have a variety of materials to check out for all ages. You will also be able to register for a library card! 325 Hiawatha Drive, Elgin.

Thu, Aug 13, 11:30am - 12:00pm
In The Community
Bring a blanket or chair to sit on and listen to a 30 minute storytime about different animal friends. Lords Park Zoo 325 Hiawatha Dr. Elgin, IL 60120

Thu, Aug 13, 12:00pm - 1:45pm
Main Library - Meadows Community Room C
Join us as we make a craft which will be distributed in our monthly activity kits to our care communities.

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Thu, Aug 13, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Virtual
Join us to learn how to stay sharp, stay ready, and stay safe in every aspect of your daily life with Dannah Eve, bestselling Author and Safety Expert. Please register.

Thu, Aug 13, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Main Library - Grove Room
A Men's Shed is a place geared toward older men to gather, make new friendships while working on projects, learning new skills and hobbies, and giving back to the community. All are welcome.

Thu, Aug 13, 3:00pm - 3:45pm
Mobile Services
Please find us on the corner of Sherwood Ave and Oakhill Rd. Elgin IL 60120.

Thu, Aug 13, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Main Library - Outdoor Stage
Chicago Samba presents a vibrant performance of authentic Brazilian music and dance, featuring five musicians and two dancers. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy the music. Please register

Thu, Aug 13, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Main Library - Elgin Room
En colaboración con el Consulado General de México en Chicago y Casa Michoacán en Elgin, invita a la comunidad a una proyección de la película mexicana Arráncame la vida, seguida de un conversatorio.

Thu, Aug 13, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Main Library - Computer Training Room
Learn how Google Drive can be used to upload, organize, and share files in the cloud.