Borrow a garden from your local Region of Waterloo Library2 min read

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Libraries offer so much more than books! One of the most unique offerings at the Region of Waterloo Library is the Seed Library.

The Seed Library is a free service that started in 2019. It hopes to foster wellbeing through gardening and share seeds within our community. And it’s a great reminder of the many different resources people can find at Region of Waterloo libraries!

With growing season upon us, patrons with a green thumb who can’t purchase seeds can visit their local branch and “borrow” up to five packets. The Seed Library includes approximately two dozen varieties of vegetables, herbs and flowers perfect for any type of garden. At the end of the growing season, people can collect seeds from a few plants and return them to the Library for next year’s crops.

“The Seed Library reduces one barrier to growing while also building community,” says Region of Waterloo Library Collection Coordinator Jen Cyr. “Even though they may never meet, it’s nice to know that you and your neighbours are sharing seeds!”

Planting seeds also reconnects us to our food systems. At a time when more and more people are facing food insecurity, the program is growing in popularity. “It gives patrons more control over their own food production, one seed at a time,” explains Cyr.

Patrons are strongly encouraged to donate back, but as every gardener knows, it isn’t always possible. “We understand that sometimes seeds don’t take root, or pests may destroy your plant before you can harvest,” says Cyr. Seed saving can be tricky at first, but there are a number of books in the collection that help explain the process!

While a library card is not required to borrow seeds, why not sign up and discover what other great resources your local Region of Waterloo Library can offer?