Muhlenberg County Public Libraries is excited to soon welcome back one of last year’s new popular services: the seed library.
The seed library opens March 1.
The Muhlenberg County Seed Library is a collaboration between Muhlenberg County Public Libraries and the Muhlenberg County Conservation District, with financial support from Owensboro Health in the form of a grant.
The service, like most others provided by the library, is offered for free, but it is a little different from traditional library services in that you are not expected to return the items you take home. Starting March 1, library users may each choose up to 14 packets of seeds to use in their home gardens. Those seeds are yours to keep, as are the plants that hopefully will grow from them.
Quantities are limited, and seeds will be available on a first come, first served basis. While the library is starting the year with a large amount of seeds to give away, some varieties are more limited than others, so you will want to visit the seed library early if you have specific tastes
The Muhlenberg County Seed Library includes 14 different varieties of edible plants:
- Lettuce
- Kale
- Radish
- Carrot
- Cucumber
- Zucchini
- Squash
- Green pepper
- Peas
- Beans (2 varieties)
- Tomatoes (3 varieties)
Participants can choose their own seeds, according to their individual needs. The limit per person is set high enough to allow each library cardholder to get one packet of each type of seed available, or you can mix and match as you desire.
While last year’s seed library was only available in Greenville, the response was sufficient that it has expanded to both library branches this year, Muhlenberg County Public Libraries director Janet Harris said. “We wanted to start small,” she said, but since things went well during the initiative’s first year, the program is growing. “Seeds will be available at both Harbin Memorial and Central City this year.”
Harris said the seed library is one way the library is helping promote healthy habits in the community. Not only is gardening considered a beneficial outdoor activity, the seeds provided will help community residents grow fresh produce to help create wholesome meals for themselves and their families. That’s especially important now, Harris added, with grocery prices still at a high level. She said, “We want to help people put healthy food on their table.”
Harris said the library was pleased to see the seed library become such a success last year, and she is hoping it will continue to grow and benefit the county for years to come. “We’re very happy to be able to provide this as a service for our community,” she said, “and we hope everyone will take advantage of it.”
A valid Muhlenberg County Public Library card is required to receive free seeds.
Library cards are available for free to all Muhlenberg County residents with proof of residence. Property owners and those who work in Muhlenberg County are also eligible for a free library card with appropriate proof, and cards are also available for a $25/year fee for those who do not meet the residency requirements.
For more information about the seed library or other library services, please call Muhlenberg County Public Libraries at 270-338-4760.
