Seed Library
What is a Seed Library?
A Seed Library is a free seed sharing program where seeds can be borrowed instead of books.
Seeds can be borrowed, planted and enjoyed. The idea is to let a portion of the crop go to seed, harvest and dry the seeds, and return them to the Seed Library for others to borrow and grow.
How does the community benefit from a Seed Library?
Encourage community connection and involvement with the library through the sharing of seeds, gardening knowledge and resources
Support sustainable practices in the community by encouraging people to attempt to grow some of their own produce
Encourage the sharing and use of local seeds and the maintaining of heirloom seed varieties
Growing plants and saving seeds is a great opportunity for adults and children to learn about the life cycle of plants
How it works
You borrow from our seed collection just like you would borrow a book.
Select the seed variety you would like to ‘borrow’ and library staff will ‘check it out’ to you. There is no due date to return these seeds, rather we ask you to attempt to take some of your crop to seed, harvest and dry seeds, and return seeds to the Seed Library to share with other borrowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can beginner gardeners borrow from the Seed Library?
Yes! Our Seed Library exists to encourage the community to love and enjoy gardening. The only way to get a green thumb is by having a go. Plus, at the library you can explore something new!
Where can I borrow seeds from?
Harry Bailey Memorial Library in Coffs Harbour, Toormina Library and Woolgoolga Library.
Do you have the seeds I want?
The Seed Library collection reflects both seasonality and the diversity of donations. Different seed varieties are available at different times. Make sure you visit regularly to see what seeds are available for you to grow!
Is borrowing from the Seed Library free?
Yes! All you need is a membership at Coffs Harbour Libraries.
Do I have to return seeds to the Seed Library?
We encourage you to return seeds to the Seed Library. If you can’t bring a crop to seed, we accept donations of heirloom seeds. The Seed Library is built upon the sharing and generosity of donations to allow it to be self-sustaining.
How do I donate seeds to the library?
Bring your dried seeds in your own bag(s) to the library. Fill out our Seed Donation form with information about the seed type. A member of staff will take your donated seeds and repackage them for sharing.
Can you guarantee my success as a gardener?
We would love you to succeed! We can assist by sharing information and resources from our collection to help you with growing, harvesting and seed saving. We also have information sheets on Seed Saving.
Seed Library Resources
Websites
https://www.organicgardener.com.au/essential-guide-to-seed-saving/
https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/how-to/seed-saving-secrets/13239606
https://seedsavers.net/local-seed-networks/
https://www.sgaonline.org.au/growing-herbs-vegetables-flowering-annuals-from-seed-2/
Books
Seed saving in Australia / Thomas Blake Ray
The seed saving guide / James M Bellman
Seed saving bible / Silas Root
Vegetable companion planting pairs / A J Cohen
Yates garden guide 45th ed.
Companion planting for beginners / Brian Lowell
Permaculture for beginners / Nicole Faires