Growing well, Seed Library blooms region-wide

Did you know your local library offers more than books? Spring is the perfect time to get out into the garden and Sunshine Coast Libraries invite you to ‘Grab, Grow and Donate’ with their Seed Library this spring.

If you’re looking for some encourage-mint to get into gardening, the Seed Library has spread and is now available at all Sunshine Coast Libraries, including mobile libraries.

Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said the expansion followed the success of the Seed Library at Maleny and Kawana Libraries.

“Since February last year our library members have been collecting and donating seeds for fruit, vegetables and flowers, including from some local and heirloom fruit and vegetable varieties that may otherwise be lost,” Cr Bunnag said.

“It’s been a wonderful example of sustainability in action, and we are proud this program will now be available at all eight Sunshine Coast Libraries and two mobile libraries.”

Fellow Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said thanks to the Seed Library, new and existing library members would be able to access a variety of seeds for free.

“Whether you’re looking to start a veggie garden, or grow vibrant flowers or natives, getting into gardening will be much easier this spring,” Cr Law said.

“The Seed Library isn’t just a great opportunity to learn how to grow your own food and flowers it’s also an opportunity for connection with other enthusiastic green-thumbs in your community.

“It’s easy to get involved, library members can grab up to four seed packets per month and once your plants have matured, you can harvest some seeds and donate them back to the Seed Library.”

Here’s how to get started:

Grab up to four packets of seeds from your local library each month or catch us on one of the mobile libraries (hint: you’ll find the Seed Library in the gardening section).

Grow your seeds at home using the information on the packets as a guide.

Donate some seeds from your matured plants back to the Seed Library to keep the cycle going. Fill out the provided envelope and pop into a donations box at your local library.

Ready to join the Seed Library? For more information visit your local Sunshine Coast Library or visit the website. Happy planting!

Did you know Sunshine Coast Libraries offer more than books?

• They host events and run programs
• The community has access to a podcast studio
• Online resources are available through the eLibrary where members can borrow, download and stream free books, films, magazines, music and more
• Story Seats are located in 10 of the region’s most stunning local parks which incorporate children’s stories into the seats’ designs for families to enjoy
• An adult literacy program has taught thousands of residents how to read and write.