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Seed Library: Growing Together

March 15, 2024

Introducing the Mamakating Library Seed Library

We're excited to announce the launch of our Seed Library! This free community resource allows you to "check out" seeds for your garden, grow your plants, and save seeds from your harvest to return to the library for others to enjoy.

How It Works

  1. Browse the seed catalog at the library
  2. Choose up to 5 seed packets per visit
  3. Plant and tend your garden
  4. Save seeds from your healthiest plants
  5. Return saved seeds to share with the community

Why Seed Libraries Matter

Seed libraries help preserve heirloom and locally-adapted plant varieties, promote food security, and build community connections through the shared love of gardening. They're also a wonderful way to learn about sustainable agriculture and seed saving techniques.

What's Available

Our seed library includes:

  • Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, beans, squash, lettuce, and more
  • Herbs: Basil, cilantro, dill, parsley, sage
  • Flowers: Sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, cosmos
  • Native Plants: Milkweed, coneflower, black-eyed Susan

Seed Saving Workshops

Join us for our monthly seed saving workshops where you'll learn:

  • How to select the best plants for seed saving
  • Proper harvesting and drying techniques
  • Seed storage best practices
  • Plant pollination and genetics basics

Check our calendar for upcoming workshop dates!

Partners

Our Seed Library is made possible through partnerships with:

  • Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County
  • Sullivan County Seed Savers Network
  • Local Master Gardeners

Stop by the library to explore our Seed Library today. It's located near the children's section - just ask any staff member for help!