We are excited to announce that Old Oak Homestead is working with the Jasper County Public Library to establish a Seed Library in our home town of Monticello Georgia. We anticipate that it will start sharing seeds by August 2024.
The concept of sharing seeds in a community is not a new one. However, pairing a Seed Library with the local Library helps to ensure that easy access is available for a greater number of residents of Jasper County and it also cultivates a sense of community around gardening.
What is a Seed Library?
A Seed Library is a community resource providing free vegetable, flower and herb seeds to anyone who wants to sow and grow them.
What are the Benefits of a Seed Library?
There are multiple benefits of a seed library. These include:
Promoting biodiversity.
Helps provide healthy food for all people, regardless of where they live.
Supporting local seed-savers and gardeners.
Encouraging increased engagement between the Library and the community.
Promotes gardening and sustainability
Helps fight against food insecurity
Encourages new gardeners to try their hand at gardening
How will the Seed Library work?
Anyone can come and access the Seed Library. It will be located at the Jasper County Public Library.
It is as easy as checking out a book, although you are not expected to return the unused seeds. We do however, encourage you to share with others any extra seeds you might have.
The Seed Library does limit the number of packets you can take, so we do not encourage you to plan on it for all your seed needs.
What Kinds of Seeds can You Get at a Seed Library?
The seeds that will be available are those that are appropriate for growing in our area. Organic, Heirloom and Open-Air Pollinated varieties are preferred as the seeds from these plants can most often be saved and used for the next growing season.
Our collection of seeds will grow based upon seed donations.
Can I Donate to the Seed Library?
YES! The Seed Library is depending upon donations for it to thrive. If you would like to donate seeds, please contact the Jasper County Public Library. Please keep in mind that they only accept unopened seed packets of open-air pollinated, or Heirloom Seeds.
The current year or previous years seeds will only be accepted. To check to see if your packet is within the years accepted, look for the year on the packet of seeds.
You can purchase seeds to donate through our Grow it Forward Program or from any other seed source of your choice. We have provided the link for you to learn more about Grow It Forward below for your convenience.
Are Seeds the Only thing Offered by the Seed Library?
NO! While having access to seeds is vital, helping folks understand what to do with those seeds, how to grow seedlings, planning for a garden and what to do with your harvest is critical. It is for this reason we are offering a series of seminars this Summer (2024) on gardening and how to grow from seed. You can check them out below.
We would love to see you there. Space is limited so register now!
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