WHAT IS A SEED LIBRARY?

GADML offers anyone with a library card (in good standing) the opportunity to “borrow” heirloom and open-pollinated seeds for free. The goal is to create a self-sustaining seed library where growers who “borrow” seeds will save and return seeds to the library after they have harvested their crops. Those seeds will then be offered to borrowers during the next growing season and the cycle can repeat itself. Over time, the seeds become stronger and increasingly acclimated to local area growing conditions.

 

WHY A SEED LIBRARY?

• To create a source of locally-adapted seeds that grow well in Midland County.

• To educate the community about biodiversity, garden and plant ecology, cultural traditions concerning food and agriculture, heirloom varieties, and related topics.

• To build community awareness and connections through partnerships with local non-profits, food producers, horticulture businesses, gardeners, educational institutions, and other seed banks.

• To preserve and perpetuate heirloom seed varieties.

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WHERE DO WE GET OUR SEED FROM?

Our initial bank of seeds was purchased through Seed Savers Exchange. Seed Savers Exchange is a tax-exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of heirloom seeds. You can learn more about Seeds Savers Exchange at seedsavers.org. You can also see images of different seed types on their website.

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MISSION OF THE GADML SEED LIBRARY?

The mission of GADML Seed Library is to build community through the sharing of bio-diverse, locally-adapted seeds, provide education on seed starting and saving techniques, and create a forum for discourse on the relevancy of local food systems to our community.

 

GET INVOLVED:

• Grow something!

• Promote the GADML Seed Library to your friends, family, and the community.

• Read and learn more about seed starting and saving at the library.

• Donate! We would love to have you donate seeds back to the Library once your growing season is over.