Seed library starts first chapter of growth at Brock University
People can borrow seeds, but are asked to return the favour in the fall
Brock University has joined a growing number of public libraries in Niagara that offer more than just books about gardening.
The university’s James A. Gibson Library is opening a seed library today, offering free seeds to help Niagara gardeners get growing this spring.
It’s supported with $2,500 in funding from WWF-Canada’s Go Wild School Grants program — more than double the funding most recipients have received.
The initiative, spearheaded by students Alexandra Cotrufo and Madison Lepp from the university’s master of sustainability program, will offer seeds for spring and summer planting seasons.
Participants are asked to return seeds harvested from their gardens to the library in the fall.
Associate university librarian, student success, Andrew Colgoni said people can access a catalogue of seeds through the Ask Us desk in the library.
“Seed libraries have been growing in popularity, particularly among public libraries, including many in the Niagara region,” he said, referring to those in St. Catharines, Welland and Niagara Falls.
The Brock library has seeds available for 33 vegetables; herbs including basil, chive, cilantro, dill, oregano and parsley; and 13 flowering plants to support pollinators such as bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.
A full list of seeds is also available at brocku.ca/sustainability/seed-library.
A media release from the university said pollinator populations and the ecosystems that depend on them face significant threats around the world, and seed libraries help support pollinators by contributing to increasing native and endangered plant species.
Brock University Environmental Sustainability Research Centre administrator Amanda Smits said seed libraries “help create a culture of sharing and abundance within a community while preserving seed lineages, stewarding a region’s biodiversity and supporting those who are new to gardening.”
“We could not be more proud of both Alexandra and Madison for spearheading this exciting new initiative,” she said.
The university reminds people interested in participating in the seed library program that its vaccination mandate is still in effect, requiring all visitors to show prove that they have had at least two doses of vaccine. Visitors are also required to complete COVID-19 screening before being permitted to enter.
The seed library is being run through a one-year trial collaboration between Brock University Project Charter and the Brock library.