Lorain Public Library System is proud to partner with Cleveland Seed Bank to once again offer Seed Libraries.
The program will be expanded in 2024 to include all six LPLS branches. Each location will offer a selection of 20 different varieties of organic, open-pollinated, non-GMO vegetable, herb and edible flower seeds beginning in late March.
One recipient of seeds offered in 2023 said “from on pack of seeds we grew almost 300 cucumbers!”
From the Cleveland Seed Bank website on why they provide Seed Libraries:
- In the last century or so, the world has lost 75% of its edible plant varieties. That might be hard to comprehend as many of us have enough food on our plates, but this loss in biodiversity threatens our food and nutrition security.
- One in five Ohioans is food insecure, meaning they do not know where their next meal will come from and lack access to enough food for an active and healthy lifestyle, as measured by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Seed libraries offer opportunities to access healthy and affordable food.
- Increasing self-reliance, fostering a connection to the land and experiencing bounty are all reasons to celebrate seeds. One seed can yield tens of thousands more and Seed Libraries can encourage a greater appreciation of the resilience of nature.
We believe that strengthening knowledge of local food systems and cultivating the skills required for sustainable food production helps to strengthen our community environmentally, economically and socially.
Visit the Cleveland Seed Bank website for downloadable information sheets that contain information about isolation distance, population size and method of pollination.
The seeds are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Patrons are invited to take up to five seed packets per month while supplies last.