What is the Bozeman Public Library Labyrinth?

Firstly, the question to answer is, what is a labyrinth?

The labyrinth is an ancient symbol that appears in a variety of cultures, dating as far back as 2,500 B.C. It combines the imagery of a circle and a spiral into a meandering but purposeful path. It is not a maze. The labyrinth looks like a maze, but only has one path that leads to the center. Labyrinths are used worldwide to quiet the mind, meditate, self-reflect, reduce stress, and to discover innovation and celebration.

BPL's eight-circuit, 52-ft diameter contemporary Labyrinth is comprised of reclaimed granite cobble, Montana sandstone, and creeping thyme. Native plantings and landforms create privacy for Labyrinth walkers while preserving views to the Lindley Park hillside and the Bridger Range beyond.

The Bozeman Public Library Labyrinth was spearheaded by Library supporter David Kingman in honor of his late wife Rocel who took comfort in walking a labyrinth when she was ill. It was designed by Shara Kees from Field Studio Landscape Architects.  She began designing the labyrinth in collaboration with David Kingman and Bill Halpin of Greenspace Landscaping in winter of 2017 while working at DHM Design.

Where is the Bozeman Public Library Labyrinth located?

The Bozeman Public Library Labyrinth is located approximately 300 yards south of the Library, alongside the sculpture garden and on the west side of the Gallagator trail, before reaching Peet's Hill. Find this and other labyrinths around the world at the World Wide Labyrinth Locator

On June 27, 2019 the BPL Labyrinth was created!

At the Labyrinth

• Before walking: Remember. You are about to step into an ancient archetypal path. The pattern has been walked by millions of people and all cultures for many reasons. The labyrinth is a sacred place set aside for you to reflect, look within, pray, and connect to your higher self. Pause in gratitude for your life. There is no right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth. Some come with a question or an intention while others come just to slow down and take time out of a busy life.
• Walking the Labyrinth: Release. The rhythm of walking, placing one foot in front of the other, empties the mind, relaxes the body, and refreshes the spirit. As you encounter other people walking the same path, simply allow them to pass. Quiet the mind and open your heart to feel whatever it may feel. Become aware of your breathing. Take slow breaths. Relax and move at your own pace.
• At the center: Receive. This is a place of reflection. Pause and stay as long as you'd like. Open yourself to your higher power. Listen to your inner voice and receive any messages or feelings that arise.
• Walking out: Return. When you are ready, begin walking out the same path you followed in. May you experience the sense of well-being, healing, excitement, calm, or peace. Each labyrinth experience is different. You may feel nothing or have a powerful reaction. Whatever the experience, take all the time you need.

World Labyrinth Day

World Labyrinth Day is celebrated on the first Saturday in May. From WorldLabyrinthDay.org: Join thousands of people around the world in this moving meditation for world peace and celebration of the labyrinth experience! On this 15th annual World Labyrinth Day, many will walk a labyrinth at 1 PM local time to help create a rolling wave of peaceful energy passing from one time zone to the next around the globe.