Did you know that DeKalb Public Library can help you grow more than just your mind? Through the spring and summer, you can visit the adult services department of the library and “check out” packets of seeds for free at our seed library!
A seed library collects and stores seeds and shares them with members of the community. Seeds may be from regional seed companies, donated from gardeners who have grown locally adapted varieties of edibles, or wildflowers that serve as nectar and host plants for pollinators. Seed libraries encourage biodiversity and decrease our reliance on major seed companies. This helps combat seed monocultures which threaten the world’s food supply. Similar to a normal library, gardeners “borrow” seeds from the seed library at planting time. At the end of the growing seasons, they save the seeds from the plants and return a portion of the seeds to the library.
In addition to being free, here’s what’s awesome about getting seeds from a seed library:
- You have the chance to get unique heirloom and local varieties from folks that having been gardening for years.
- Fewer seeds are wasted. Many of us don’t need a whole seed packet of seeds; the seed library makes small packets suitable for a home garden.
Read the frequently asked questions below to gain a better understanding of the seed library:
Why are seed libraries important?
- Four giant companies control more than 60% of the world’s seed supply. Industrial monocultures = decreased biodiversity
- Saving and sharing seeds, particularly locally adapted varieties, helps us build a more secure food supply
- Providing seeds for free encourages the community to learn and practice gardening and the art of growing your own food
How do I ‘check out’ seeds?
You may take up to 3 packets of seeds per week. When you take packets, please write your name, the date, the type and quantity of seed packets taken, and any notes you have in the log next to the seed library.
Can I donate seeds to the collection?
Yes! Whether you have extra seeds from a seed packet that you don’t need, or if you have collected seeds from an existing plant, we are happy to take donations. Donations help us to make sure the collection is sustainable and contains locally-adapted varieties of plants that grow well in our zone. Seeds should be dry and ready for planting, and can be submitted in a sealed envelope, plastic baggie, or other sealed container. You can drop off donations at the adult services desk in the library. Seed Savers Exchange offers a handy guide to saving seeds that you can refer to when collecting information for your seeds.
When you come to the library and “check out” your seeds, take a trip over to our nonfiction section and see our sizable collection of books on gardening! Here are some of our favorites:
If you need a break from gardening, visit the library in March and April to attend these spring-y programs!
- March 18, 2026, 4:00pm – 7:00pm
DIY Spring Equinox Suncatchers
- March 19, 2026 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Rockford Peaches and the History of Women’s Baseball
- March 21, 2026, 11:00am – 12:00pm
- April 2, 2026, 5:30pm – 6:30pm
- April 10, 2026, 3:30pm – 4:30pm
- April 18, 2026, 1:00pm – 1:45pm and 2:15pm- 3:00pm
- April 21, 2026, 6:00pm – 7:00pm
If you have any questions about our collections or upcoming programs, please contact us at [email protected] or 815-756-9568 ext. 2150. We are always happy to help you!