Try new seeds for free at Rock Island Public Library’s Seed Library
Warm temperatures have gardeners itching to get outside and get to work on their gardens. Trying new seeds doesn’t having to be expensive, thanks to the Rock Island Public Library’s Seed Library.
The Seed Library is a collection of mostly open-pollinated and heirloom seeds that gardeners can “borrow” throughout the growing season, typically March-September in this zone. The library has packets of vegetable, fruit, herb and flower seeds for gardeners.
“My favorite feature of the Seed Library is that it is open to anyone who visits our library,” said Anna Campbell, Rock Island Library Reference Librarian. “This resource is also intended for all levels of experience, so whether you are an aspiring or experienced gardener, we have something for you in our Seed Library!”
Library patrons can pick up five free packets of seeds per household per month. There’s a lending logbook that helps the library keep track of inventory, but library cards aren’t necessary to get seeds. The largest collection is available at the Rock Island Downtown Library, 401 19th Street.
Themed seed bundles are also available at both the Southwest Branch, 9010 Ridgewood Road, and Watts-Midtown Branch, 2715 30th Street. Each bundle contains five pre-selected packets based on specific use, including Culinary Garden, Pizza Garden, Tea Garden and more. Patrons may request one bundle per month per household.
The library also has an Illinois Growing Guide binder with information on growing and saving seeds from any of the ones contained within the Seed Library. For details on the Seed Library, click here.
To learn how to donate saved seeds to the Seed Library, call the Reference Desk at (309) 732-7341, or visit the Reference Desk at the Downtown Library.
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