SeedLibraryLogo2The Kent Free Library is starting a Seed Library, modeled after successful programs at Akron Summit County Public Library and the Cleveland Public Library. Interested participants are invited to a kick-off Seed Saving Workshop on Wednesday, August 12 at 7:00 pm, led by Don Abbott of Kent Foods Not Lawns.

“The Seed Library of Kent Free Library will encourage the tradition of seed saving, nurture locally-adapted plant varieties, and foster a community culture of sharing,” according to Community and Special Services Manager Kristen Pool, who coordinates the project.

“We will establish and grow a collection of seeds that will be available for free to our patrons, and also, through library materials and our volunteer partners in the project, we will provide information, instruction, and education about sustainable gardening,” says Pool. Gardeners who “check out” seeds from the library can then return a portion of seeds from the vegetables they grow.

Pool says the August 12 program will provide detailed information for new seed savers about the plants from which seeds may be gathered, the drying technique, and how to donate seeds to the library. Kent Free will begin collecting seeds in October.

Seed packets will be available for check out beginning in March next year. According to Pool, as the Seed Library gets established with donations from local seed savers, she will work with seed companies and the Cleveland Seed Bank to bolster the number and variety of seeds available.

Pool notes that this spring and summer, the library has offered a successful series of monthly programs about backyard gardening, with local speakers sharing their expertise. Many of these speakers, including some from Kent Food Not Lawns and the Portage County Masters Gardeners, will assist the library in maintaining the Seed Library and offering advice to gardeners who plan to save donate seeds.

Register for the August 12 Seed Saving Workshop by calling the Information Desk at 330.673.4414. Additional information about the Seed Library will be available on our website.