SEED LIBRARY
what is a seed library?
A seed library is exactly how it sounds, it is a library that loans seeds to gardeners typically free of charge. How does a seed library work? The gardener will borrow seeds from the seed library to plant in their own garden and grow them to maturity. Once the seeds are ready to be saved, the gardener will save these new seeds and are encouraged to return them to the seed library so other people can borrow them. This cycle of borrowing seeds, growing them, and giving back a portion of the seeds is what makes a successful seed library. There are already many seed libraries established in public libraries including the Richmond Public Library and the Vancouver Public Library.
Why start a seed library?
People save seeds for many different reasons. For some people, saving seeds is a way to save money. You will be surprised by how many seeds each plant can produce! A seed library is also a way to build community with other gardeners whether they are beginners or advanced. Since the seed library operates on the honor system that all members will return their seeds to the seed library, there is culture of sharing and giving back to the community. Have you ever bit into a really sweet and delicious strawberry and then later on, you can’t seem to find that same taste again? With seed saving, you will not have this problem. There are many other reasons to start a seed library, but the underlying question here is, why not start a seed library?