The little comm-unity seed library & exchange in Field, Ontario
This idea started with another member in the community creating a little free book library and I thought how neat it would be to also have a seed library right here in my own community.
As this is an individual ran seed library, it relies on donations, seed exchanges and my own saved seed or left over seed purchases to stock the library. I sort out seeds in the library in a way that is simplified for our visitors. There is 4 categories: Herbs, Flowers, Vegetables - Start Early and Vegetables - Direct Sow.
I believe that the need for this type of initiative in rural, isolated parts of the country is important to help build food security and stability. There is nothing more powerful than being able to grow and provide your own food and medicine to your family and friends. As a self-reliant homesteader myself I wanted to encourage more enthusiasm for growing your own food and seed saving among members of my community especially with those who are young or financially struggling.
Another one of my goals with the seed library was to encourage people to pass along old heirloom varieties that have been growing successfully in this region for years. I think there is a great need for regionally adapted seed sharing in communities. It helps to create successful gardeners and farmers out of novices and experienced individuals alike. There is less wasted money, time and resources on things that don’t grow well in that specific geographical region. As well as it puts money back into the pockets of farmers in your community instead of big companies.
The little community seed library has been a hit in our community and we hope that it inspires other people to start a library in their community, save their own seed or even grow a garden.
Where can you find the seed library?
The library can be found roadside next to our farmstand at 1415 Lac Clair Road.