The Seed Exchange Library at Cumberland County Library is a unique, donation-based initiative that allows patrons to borrow seeds for their gardening projects. Located at the Headquarters Library at 300 Maiden Lane, this library offers a variety of seeds, including vegetables, flowers, and herbs. The seeds are often harvested from local plants by Master Growers at The Fayetteville Botanical Garden.
Library visitors may borrow up to 5 seed packs per family, making it an accessible resource for all. The Seed Exchange Library was established as part of a $40,500 grant for the library’s ‘Culinary Literacy and Wellness at the Library’ initiative. While most of the grant was directed toward cooking initiatives, a portion was specifically allocated to foster this innovative gardening program.
Participating in the Seed Exchange Library is easy and works much like borrowing a book from the library. Patrons can browse the available seed stock, choose up to 5 seed packs per family, and ‘borrow’ them to grow in their gardens. After nurturing the plants throughout the season, gardeners are encouraged to return seeds harvested from their plants to the library.
This cyclical process of borrowing, growing, and returning seeds not only helps maintain the seed library but also promotes a culture of sharing and sustainability. By participating, gardeners of all skill levels can contribute to and benefit from a diverse and ever-growing seed collection…