The Seed Exchange Library at Cumberland County Library is a unique, donation-based initiative that allows patrons to borrow seeds for their gardening projects. Located at the Headquarters Library at 300 Maiden Lane, this library offers a variety of seeds, including vegetables, flowers, and herbs. The seeds are often harvested from local plants by Master Growers at The Fayetteville Botanical Garden.

Library visitors may borrow up to 5 seed packs per family, making it an accessible resource for all. The Seed Exchange Library was established as part of a $40,500 grant for the library's 'Culinary Literacy and Wellness at the Library' initiative. While most of the grant was directed toward cooking initiatives, a portion was specifically allocated to foster this innovative gardening program.

Participating in the Seed Exchange Library is easy and works much like borrowing a book from the library. Patrons can browse the available seed stock, choose up to 5 seed packs per family, and 'borrow' them to grow in their gardens. After nurturing the plants throughout the season, gardeners are encouraged to return seeds harvested from their plants to the library.

This cyclical process of borrowing, growing, and returning seeds not only helps maintain the seed library but also promotes a culture of sharing and sustainability. By participating, gardeners of all skill levels can contribute to and benefit from a diverse and ever-growing seed collection.

The Fayetteville Botanical Garden plays a crucial role in the success of the Seed Exchange Library. Master Growers from the gardens harvest seeds from local plants, ensuring the seed stock is well-suited to the local climate and growing conditions. This local expertise helps establish that the seeds available at the Seed Exchange Library are of high quality and have a good chance of thriving when planted.

The collaboration between the library and the botanical garden fosters a strong community connection and provides gardeners with access to expert knowledge and resources. This partnership enhances the overall gardening experience for everyone involved.

The Seed Exchange Library offers numerous benefits to the community. It provides a cost-effective way for families to start or expand their gardens, making gardening accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. By promoting the exchange of seeds and gardening knowledge, the library fosters a sense of community and encourages sustainable practices.

Gardening has numerous health benefits, including physical activity, stress reduction, and access to fresh, homegrown produce. The Seed Exchange Library supports these benefits by providing the resources needed for successful gardening. Additionally, the initiative encourages biodiversity and the preservation of local plant varieties.

The Seed Exchange Library relies on donations to maintain and expand its seed stock. Community members can support the initiative by donating seeds, whether they are harvested from their own gardens or purchased from reputable sources. Donations are accepted year-round and can be dropped off at the Headquarters Library.

By contributing to the Seed Exchange Library, donors help ensure that a wide variety of seeds remain available for all library patrons. This support enables the library to continue offering this valuable resource and promoting the joys and benefits of gardening to the entire community.

For more information on the Seed Exchange Library, call 910-483-7727 or visit cumberlandcountync.gov