Happy spring! Did you know you can get seeds from your library?
The Seed Library is a free program committed to increasing our ability to feed ourselves wholesome food by offering seeds and education. Through the time-honored tradition of seed saving we celebrate biodiversity, nurture locally adapted plant varieties, and foster community resilience, self-reliance, and a culture of sharing.
Located on the second floor of the library in the Library of Things (LOTS), the Seed Library operates on the honor system. You become a member automatically when you withdraw seeds to plant. Take what you plan to grow (generally 2-3 seeds for larger seeds and a pinch for small seeds). Small envelopes and resealable bags are available for your convenience.
Additionally, we encourage all members to learn basic seed-saving techniques. Flyers about beginner seed-saving are available, and we encourage that beginning seed savers grow out and return seeds from lettuce, tomato, bean or pea plants the first year. Returned seed will allow us to keep the library well stocked! If you leave seeds, please fill out one of the labels with as much information as you know.
We Adhere to the Safe Seed Promise
Agriculture and seeds provide the basis upon which our lives depend. We must protect this foundation as a safe and genetically stable source for future generations. For the benefit of all farmers, gardeners, and consumers who want an alternative: we do not knowingly buy, grow, share or trade genetically engineered (“GMO”) seeds or plants.
Additionally, as a member of the Seed Library, you promise to grow plants and save seeds according to best practices to ensure that you return viable seed that will produce plants true to the variety you label them to be. If they are a mix or unknown parentage you will label them accordingly. We will not share seeds that were labeled as patented. (In the USA, they are labeled as PVP, Plant Variety Protection)
Gardening For All
While you’re visiting the Seed Library, why not check out the gardening tools that the Library of Things has? We have spades, a soil tester, a Seeding Square, new ergonomic hand tools, and so much more!
More Things are being added all the time, so be sure to check the “New” section of LOTS often!
Wild Ones Menomonee River Area: Seed Giveaway!
Wild Ones Menomonee River Area will be in the lobby of the Library on Friday April, 24 from 10:00am – 2:00pm to hand out packets of free native seeds to encourage local biodiversity! There will also be free educational information and guidance to help you with your spring gardening projects.
Wild Ones is a non-profit group dedicated to promoting native plants and sustainable landscaping practices.
Lobby of the Library: April 24, 10:00am – 2:00pm