What is a Seed Library?

A Seed Library is a community-driven resource where people can borrow seeds, grow them, and then return some of the harvest’s seeds to share with others. It's a fantastic way to promote biodiversity, sustainability, and self-sufficiency within our community. By participating, you contribute to the preservation of unique, locally-adapted plant varieties while helping others grow their own food.

 

 

How It Works

  1. Borrow Seeds: Visit our Seed Library and browse through the available varieties. Choose the seeds that fit your gardening space and needs.

  2. Plant and Grow: Take the seeds home and plant them! We provide helpful gardening tips and instructions to help you grow your plants successfully.

  3. Save and Return Seeds: At the end of the growing season, save seeds from your healthiest, most productive plants. Then, return these seeds to the library for others to borrow.

 

 

Why Participate in Our Seed Library?

  • Promote Biodiversity: Help preserve and propagate locally-adapted plants.

  • Access to Free Seeds: Gardening should be accessible to everyone, and we believe in removing barriers like seed cost.

  • Sustainable Gardening: By saving and sharing seeds, we create a cycle of sustainability that benefits the environment and community.

  • Build Community: Our Seed Library fosters collaboration, education, and a deeper connection with nature and neighbors.

 

 

What Seeds Do We Offer?

We offer a wide variety of seeds that are well-suited to our local climate and conditions. Some of the seed varieties we offer include:

  • Vegetables: Tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, peas, carrots, and more!

  • Herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme, mint, and rosemary.

  • Flowers: Sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, and other pollinator-friendly flowers.

  • Native Plants: Local species that support pollinators and other wildlife.

 

 

Seed-Saving Resources

Not sure how to save your seeds? No worries! We have a variety of resources to help you get started, including pop-up workshops and brochure guides. Seed-saving ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy healthy, sustainable gardening.

- https://seedsavers.org/learn/seed-saving/

- https://www.communityseednetwork.org/resources/

- https://www.robingreenfield.org/seedsaving/

 

 

Visit Us

You can find our Seed Library at:

Old Town Public Library
46 Middle St., Old Town, ME
Contact: (207) 827-3972
Codi Badger, Adult Services Librarian, codibadger@old-town.org

 

 

Sister Seed Loaning Libraries

Brown Memorial Library | 53 Railroad St, Clinton, ME 04927

Buck Memorial Library | 47 Main St, Bucksport, ME 04416

Orono Public Library | 39 Pine St, Orono, ME 04473