Bookworm Gardens celebrates 15 years
They say time flies when you're having fun
SHEBOYGAN — The botanic garden in Sheboygan based on children's literature is celebrating 15 years this year.
Bookworm Gardens, located at 1415 Campus Drive in Sheboygan, opened in 2010 on the Sheboygan Center Campus. The gardens opened for their 15th season on May 1st. It is one of the area’s tourist attractions while still a place for locals to explore.
In March 2008, officials selected the 1.5-acre site for the nearly $3 million children's garden. The gardens are on land owned by Sheboygan County which are leased to the non-profit organization. "Bookworm Gardens will be a great compliment to UW-Sheboygan and another precious jewel for the county," said County Administrator Adam Payne. Construction began that year but the idea for Bookworm Gardens was hatched by Sandy Livermore in 1999.
When it opened to the public in 2010, the garden was organized around seven themed gardens and associated with some 70 books. In October 2021, the organization received approval from Sheboygan County to expand their footprint by 23.5-acres. The additional space is located northwest of the existing grounds and has been used in past years for high school cross country meets.
In 2021, Bookworm Gardens also received approval from the City Plan Commission to construct Nature Preschool, abased within an authentic yurt structure, a new restroom building, extended pathways and gardens, new learning areas, and a pedestrian bridge. However, there has been no movement on the planned expansion.
Over 80 books are now represented, each with a corresponding space. The gardens are open everyday except Mondays. Advance admission is free for Sheboygan County residents or $3 per person at the gate.
For more information, visit bookwormgardens.org.
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