Borrow Seeds from the Library and Grow Your Own
Designed to cultivate food security, protect local plant diversity, and inspire learning, our Seed Library offers free seeds and gardening resources to every library visitor.
We encourage anyone who is interested to borrow from our seed library — whether you’re a seasoned gardener, never tried to grow something in your life, or somewhere in between — there are seeds you can grow at home.
Stop by the Library and “borrow” seed packets. You’ll be able to check out up to 3 seed packets per household per month. All we ask is that you harvest and “return” the seeds to the library when and if you can.
Some of our seeds do require being planted outside, while others can grow in a pot or tray, so just choose the ones that fit your needs best!
Using the Seed Library
How it Works
- A library card is not required to obtain seeds from the Seed Library.
- You may take up to three (3) seed packets per month. The number of seeds per packet will vary depending on size and type of seed.
- Seeds are distributed on a first-come/first-served basis. Due to limited quantities, we are unable to reserve or hold seeds from the Seed Library.
- You are not required to return unused seeds, although we encourage you to return unopened packets so that others may enjoy them. We simply ask that you consider donating seeds harvested from your garden at the end of the season. Guidelines for returning seeds are posted below.
- All seed packets are clearly marked with the plant name and year seeds were harvested. Additional information such as heirloom, organic, type of yearly growth, and the best months for growing are indicated, if possible.
- Library staff are not available to provide instructions on planting seeds or care of plants, but will gladly direct you to relevant books on gardening and horticulture.
Disclaimers
- You are responsible for planting, maintaining, and discarding your seeds and any plants resulting from the seeds.
- Edible plants should only be grown in soil that has been tested for known contaminants, including heavy metals.
- Seeds are made available without warranty or guaranty. The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages, or expense resulting from use or misuse of seeds or for any loss resulting from the use of any seed received from the Seed Library.
Seeds Available as of March 2026
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Indoor or Outdoor | Flower or Vegetable | Best Season to Plant |
|---|---|---|---|---|
We make every effort to update our list of seeds monthly, however not all seeds are available at all times. Staff are unable to check availability. Please stop by the Library in person to make your selections.
Donating Seeds back to the Library
When donating seeds back to the Library, please provide the following information about the donated seeds:
- Plant name
- Year seeds were harvested
- Donor’s name, phone/email (Personal information will be kept confidential and will be used only to address any questions about the donated seed)
- Whether the seeds are heirloom (if known)
- Whether the seeds are organic (if known)
The Library cannot accept treated seeds, patented seeds or seeds protected by the Plant Variety Protection Act.
