We have established a Seed Library at the library, allowing library members to “borrow” seeds that they can then plant in their gardens. At the end of the growing season, gardeners are invited to share with the library seeds they have grown, replenishing the stock for the next season. The seeds in the library are all heirloom, non-GMO and organic seeds, and community members are invited to share rare and native seeds to help preserve local biodiversity. The seeds available are fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers.

Library patrons may “borrow” up to 4 seed packets per visit. To check seeds out, bring the seed packets up to the front desk, and we will scan the seeds for you. Our seed selection changes throughout the year based on generous donations from Seed Savers Exchange and what seeds are “returned” from patrons like you! Seeds are heirloom, non-GMO or organic variety plants.

Each packet is labeled with basic growing directions and Easy, Medium or Advanced– to distinguish how hard it is to harvest viable seed from each variety. Beginner gardeners are recommended to start with Easy seeds as these do not have a risk of cross-pollination and are easy to collect. We also have several books in our collection on gardening and seeds or you can visit the Seed Saver Exchange website for more detailed directions. At the end of the season, save seeds from some of the healthiest plants you have grown from the seeds to return to the Seed Library to replenish the collection.

To “return” seeds, visit the front desk, where we will have a form for you to fill out with a seed envelope for the collection. Fill out as much of the information about the seed and plant as you can or see a librarian for assistance.

Download the Seed Packet Information for the 2022 seeds here: Collection 1.  

 Collection 2

Helpful Links to get you started growing:

Seed Savers’ Gardening and Planting Tips

Saving Seeds: Where to Start?

UNH Cooperative Extension: Starting Plants from Seeds

Seed Libraries’ Seed Saving Videos