Library of the Chathams Seed Library

There are not only books and movies at the library – you can now borrow seeds.  We have started our seed library to help our patrons learn about gardening and to promote biodiversity and healthy eating.  

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How it Works:

You may be asking, “How can you ‘borrow’ seeds?” The basic idea of the Seed Library is that we provide non-GMO, heirloom seeds that you sign out. Then you plant the seeds and once it is time to harvest your crop we ask that you save some seeds (using the proper techniques for whatever seeds you borrowed) and return them to the library to share with others. 

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How to Borrow Seeds:

The seed library is located in a card catalog near the Information Desk. Seed packets are arranged alphabetically by the name of the vegetable or fruit, then alphabetically by the variety name.
An example would be:
Basic name: Bean; Variety: Golden Butterwax

1. Select up to 7 packets of seeds (for the season).
2. Sign out the seeds using the Seed Borrowing Form at the library.  Please provide your name, contact information, and which seeds you have borrowed.
3. Bring the completed form to the desk for “checkout”.
4. Take the seeds home and get planting!

 

Resources and Information:

Below are some links with information on planting and harvesting seeds.

• Gardening in the Community – Chatham Girl Scout Silver Award Project
• New Jersey Vegetable Planting Calendar – Urban Farmer
• Planning a Vegetable Garden – Rutgers Cooperative Extension
• Vegetable and Herb Gardening Fact Sheets and Bulletins – Rutgers Cooperative Extension
• How to Save Seeds – Seed Savers Exchange
• Saving Garden Seeds – Planet Natural

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Brought to you by:

The library has received generous donations from the following organizations and companies to start our Seed Library:

• Friends of the Library of the Chathams
• Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
• Seed Savers Exchange
• High Mowing Organic Seeds