A seed library is a place where community members can get seeds for free or a nominal fee and is run for the public. Many seed libraries are open in libraries and community centers. Seed libraries were started to inspire healthy eating, environmental education, and hands on learning for those who want to grow their own food or save seeds.

The basic idea of a seed library is:

• You check out a packet of seeds

• Plant the seeds

• Let some of the seeds go to maturity

• Harvest that next generation of seeds

• Return seeds from your plants to the library so other people can check them out

If you don’t have a seed library near you there are ways to start one.

• Present your idea to a local group, such as a garden club or master gardeners. There is a lot of work involved, so you’ll need a group of interested people.

• Arrange for a convenient space, such as a community building. Often, actual libraries are willing to dedicate a space for a seed library (they don’t take up much space).

• Gather your materials. You’ll need a sturdy wooden cabinet with dividable drawers, labels, sturdy envelopes for the seeds, date stamps, and stamp pads. Local hardware stores, garden centers, or other businesses may be willing to donate materials.

• You’ll also need a desktop computer with a seed database (or another system for keeping track). Free, open source databases are available online.

• Ask local gardeners for seed donations. Don’t worry about having a huge variety of seeds at first. Starting small is a good idea. Late summer and autumn (seed saving time) is the best time to request seeds.

• Decide on categories for your seeds. Many libraries use “super easy,” “easy,” and “difficult” classifications to describe the difficulty level involved in planting, growing, and saving the seeds. You’ll also want to divide seeds by the type of plant (i.e. flowers, vegetables, herbs, etc. or perennials, annuals, or biennial.) Include classifications for heirloom plants and native wildflowers. There are many possibilities, so devise the classification system that works best for you and your borrowers.

• Establish your ground rules. For example, do you want all seeds to be grown organically? Are pesticides okay?

• Gather a group of volunteers. For starters, you’ll need people to staff the library, sort and package seeds, and create publicity. You may want to promote your library by inviting professional or master gardeners to provide informational presentations or workshops.

• Spread the word about your library with posters, fliers, and brochures. Be sure to provide information about saving seeds!

Check out Seed Libraries amazing website for more information:

http://seedlibraries.weebly.com