Seed Library Now Open, Just in Time for Garden Planning

 Spring is right around the corner, and that means garden planning and planting! The Rock Island Public Library Seed Library has reopened for the growing season with new seeds to try.

The Seed Library is a collection of primarily open-pollinated and heirloom seeds that the public may “borrow” throughout the growing season (typically March-September.) The collection includes packets of vegetable, fruit, herb, and flower seeds.

Library visitors may pick up five free packets per household per month. There’s a lending log book, so the library can track inventory, but no library card is required. The largest collection is available in a card catalog at the Rock Island Downtown Library, 401 19^th Street.

In a new feature, themed seed bundles are also available at both the Southwest Branch (9010 Ridgewood Road) and Watts-Midtown Branch (2715 30^th Street.) Each bundle will contain five pre-selected packets based on specific use, such as Culinary Garden, Pizza Garden, Tea Garden, etc. Patrons may request one bundle per month per household. The sign out process is the same as at the Downtown Seed Library.

To help growers, the library also offers an Illinois Growing Guide binder with details about growing and seed saving any of the seeds contained within the seed library. The guide is also available on the Seed Library page at the library website.

"My favorite feature of the Seed Library is that it is open to anyone who visits our library," said Anna Campbell, 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!"

For information about donating saved seeds to the Seed Library, please call the Reference Desk, 309-732-7341, or visit the Reference & Information Desk at the Downtown Library. 

For other questions, contact the Library at 309-732-READ, visit the library webpage, or follow Rock Island Library on Facebook and Instagram.