The Bellevue Botanical Garden Society has received a three-year, $149,600 “Museums for America” grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The grant will enhance Botanical Garden’s interpretive programs, designed to pique curiosity and encourage visitors to be plant explorers and lifelong learners. The city will develop a new, interactive visitor map, install interactive touch screens in the new visitor orientation room and develop an application for use on mobile devices.

The society, a nonprofit that supports the garden, will manage the grant funds; city staff at the garden will complete the projects in coordination with the society. The three-year project will begin on Oct.1.

“Federal support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services helps museums provide opportunities for children, families and adults to explore science, history, art and the natural world,” said IMLS Director Susan Hildreth. “With these grants, museums of all sizes and types provide new and memorable learning experiences, care for treasured collections and take an active role in strengthening communities.”

For more information, contact Nancy Kartes, Bellevue Botanical Garden manager, 425-452-2749, nkartes@bellevuewa.gov.