The Seed Library is a place to donate and share plant seeds. Anyone can donate or take seeds for vegetables, fruits, and flowers from the collection for their own use—like a Little Free Library, but for seeds.
The Seed Library is located in the Adult department from early spring to late fall (or when all of the seeds have been taken).
Taking Seeds
- Seed Catalog Binder: Browse packets organized alphabetically with the name of the plant and growing instructions. You are welcome to remove the packets to take a photo, but please return them when you are finished.
- Seed Packet Organizer: The available seeds are arranged alphabetically in small envelopes in an acrylic organizer with drawers. Seeds are free and you can take up to five envelopes per person per visit. Please only take what you will use. Beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and peas are great options for beginners!
Giving Seeds
- Save your seeds at the end of the season! While not necessary in order to use the Seed Library, it can be fun to participate the full lifecycle and share with the community. If you are donating seeds from your garden, please provide only open-pollinated or heirloom seeds. Please see How to Save Seeds for more information.
- Seed Catalog Binder: Donation envelopes are available in the in the Giving Seeds section of the binder. If you have your own envelopes, please make sure you include the seed type, variety, and year of harvest.
- Place seed donation envelopes the Giving Seeds section of the binder. If your donation will not fit in the binder, please give it to staff at the Adult Desk.
- Fill out the Seed Library – Giving Seeds information in the Seed Library binder so that the library has the seed source information.
If you have any questions regarding the Seed Library, please ask at the Adult Desk.
Resources from the University of Illinois Extension Service
Questions? Please contact Adult Associate Catherine Johnston.
