This garden is a fitting tribute to the memory of Sam Hitt, an avid gardener himself, who served as Director of the Health Sciences Library from 1976-1986. The garden connects the library physically and thematically to the neighboring schools of health professions, by growing and displaying plants that have therapeutic uses. It complements the beauty of the library and invites guests and passers-by to stop for reflection or a closer look, and to enjoy the library both inside and out.

As part of its renovation, the Health Sciences Library has established a medicinal plant gardens. The garden space was designed by David Swanson of Swanson and Associates, Landscape Architecture, of Chapel Hill, who also recommended the plants included. Garden preparation and plantings are by UNC Facilities Services. Additional assistance has been provided by the staff of the NC Botanical Garden.