by Karen Kiddey
Something new and exciting is growing at the public library. We’re excited to announce that Almonte’s Seed Library is about to sprout!A seed lending library is a free exchange designed to promote healthy local food and a stronger community. It’s also a great way to save money and try seed stock that is suited to your own climate. And to top it all off — saving and sharing seeds is just plain fun!More than ten years ago, a New York State librarian had the nifty idea of adding seed packets to his branch’s offerings — a project that has blossomed in public libraries. Since gardening is one of Canada’s favourite pastimes, it’s not surprising that the trend has taken root in Canada as well. In fact, Lanark County Grows’ first seed library began in 2013 at the Perth & District Union Public Library. And now Mississippi Mills gardeners will have a chance to show off their ‘seedy’ heritage as well!
You Can Help Us Build a Collection of Seeds
In Almonte and Pakenham, we are checking with gardeners and farmers and seed sources to find seeds that we can start lending for next spring’s gardens. If you have seeds to share, or know someone who does, we would love to hear from you.
You Can Help Us Share Seeds
Here is how the cycle will work, once we have enough seeds to lend:
- Check out a package of seeds for free at the library, plant them & let them grow to maturity.
- Save some of the seeds from your harvest and feel free to bring some to the library where they will be packaged for others to check out!
You Can Learn How to Save Seeds
FREE Seed-Saving Workshop:
Almonte Public Library, Saturday July 12, 10 – NoonLearn how to save “easy” seeds from local grower and expert seed-saver Telsing Andrews of Aster Lane Edibles. Please register for this free workshop at the
Almonte Library. 613-256-1037 or contact: kkiddey@missisippimills.ca
Almonte Library. 613-256-1037 or contact: kkiddey@missisippimills.ca