The latest holdings at the Galesburg Public Library are seeds.
The library has launched a new program for members of the community to exchange seeds.
The goal of a seed library is much like that of any other library.
It’s to gain knowledge.
In this case, it’s the knowledge of gardening and growing native plants.
“I think that fits in with our mission because it’s about spreading that information and making sure that people can do things on their own,” said archivist and reference librarian Emily Dugranrut, who is coordinating the seed library.
In its first year, the seed library is getting started with donations of fruit, vegetable, herb, and flower seeds.
All of the seeds are available for the public to come in and take to grow at home.
“The hope is people will grow these things, and then save seeds from those materials and bring them in for other people to come and take the next year,” Dugranrut said.
Another goal of the seed library is to help address food insecurity in the community by increasing the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables.
The program is being offered in partnership with the University of Illinois Extension.
Resources and information about gardening will also be available to the public.
Dugranrut said the seed library is free for any community member, with or without a library card.
The library will host a kickoff event for the seed library at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 25.
The event is open to all ages, but attendance is limited. Call (309)343-6118 to sign up for the kickoff event.
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