About the Seed Library
The Seed Library is a collection of open-pollinated and heirloom seeds that you can borrow to plant and grow at home. By saving seeds as a community, we help create locally adapted plant varieties and preserve genetic diversity.
The 2026 Seed Library opens on Monday, March 16. It closes at the end of the growing season.
New for 2026:
- Small seed catalogs available at Southwest and Watts-Midtown Branches. (Limited quantities.
- Even more native seed varieties. Look for the leaf symbol.
How to Use the Seed Library
Using the Seed Library is easy!
- Pick out the seeds you would like to plant from our Seed Library drawers.
- Largest selection Downtown; smaller catalogs at branches.
- Take up to 5 different seed packets per family per month.
- Please do not take all the same variety of seeds—leave some for others to enjoy!
- Take your seeds home and plant them.
- If you are able, consider saving some seeds from your mature plants and donating them back to the seed library.
- Whether you are at our Downtown headquarters or a branch location, please take just five packets per month.
Seed Library FAQs
Where is the Seed Library located?
Our primary Seed Library is located near the Circulation and Reference desks at the Downtown Library and is available March through September. Look for the small card catalog box with multiple drawers. Smaller seed catalogs available at our Southwest and Watts-Midtown Branches. Please restrict your borrowing to five seed packets per month.
Do I need to return seeds to the library?
No, you do not need to return seeds to the library. There is no obligation to save and return seeds, especially if you’re new to seed saving. As you grow as a gardener and a seed saver, we hope that you will consider sharing your seeds with the Seed Library community.
Are there any fines or fees?
The Seed Library is free to use and there are no late fees or replacement costs. No library card is required to use the Seed Library.
What kind of seeds are available?
Supplies and varieties vary, but the collection usually includes vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits. Our 2026 collection includes even more native varieties. Native seeds are marked with a leaf. To check what seeds are currently available stop by to browse! Seeds are available while supplies last.
What if I want to donate seeds from outside the Seed Library?
Seed donations are welcome all year round. Please see a Reference Librarian at the Downtown Library for envelopes and labels.