Seed Library
New Collection:
Seed Library
This spring, EPL is pleased to introduce our new Seed Library, a collection for people of all gardening levels to take or donate seeds for growing plants. Want to pick up a new seed variety to try in your garden, or share a special heirloom variety with others? The Seed Library welcomes all gardeners to learn and grow together.
How It Works
The Seed Library is open March – Nov. and is located in the Lobby near the stairs.
Seeds are free to take, and anyone can take seeds regardless of EPL cardholder status.
You may take up to five seed packets per household per visit; please only take what you will use.
The Seed Library is stocked with both donations from EPL patrons and with donations from commercial seed companies. For information on growing seasons, visit Illinois Extension's When to Plant in Illinois guide here.
Growing Together: Plant Programs This Spring
Seed Donation
Fill out a seed donation form, found on Seed Library shelves or click here to download a copy. Please include all information listed on the form so others can be as informed as possible when taking seeds.
Once the seed donation form has been filled out, attach it to your seeds and and deposit them into the seed donation box.
The Seed Library accepts both saved seeds and commercial seed packets. Donations will be added to the collection at the discretion of Library staff.
For information on seed saving, visit Illinois Extension's guide here.
FAQs
When is the Seed Library open?
The Seed Library will be available to patrons from March through November.
Do I need a library card to take seeds?
No, you do not need a library card to take seeds — the Seed Library is open to everyone.
Are the seeds free?
Yes, the seeds are free to take, though we ask that you only take what you will plant and no more than five packets per household at a time.
Do I need to do anything after taking seeds?
You do not need to do anything after taking seeds — just plant and enjoy!
If you are interested in harvesting seeds from your plants to donate back to the Seed Library, check out the Library’s upcoming seed programs or visit visit Illinois Extension's seed saving guide here.
What information will be included with the seed packets?
A variety of specific growing information will be included inside the seed packets.
How many plants can I grow with each packet?
Each packet is a sample size to help you get started; each will yield a different number of plants.
How do I plant the seeds?
A photocopy of the growing information will be included in the seed packets. More information about growing resources can be found on Illinois Extension's When to Plant in Illinois guide.
Can Library staff help me plant the seeds?
No, Library staff cannot help you plant seeds, but we are happy to guide you towards resources on planting seeds!
Can Library staff teach me how to garden?
Library staff cannot instruct you on planting or proper use of seeds, but we’re happy to guide you towards gardening books, resources, and programs.
Can I request a certain type of seed?
Because the Seed Library consists entirely of donations, we cannot guarantee any specific seed.
Who runs the Seed Library?
The Seed Library is run by a Library staff committee.
Does the Seed Library accept volunteers?
The Seed Library is not currently accepting volunteers.
Is there a comprehensive list of the Seed Library’s current offerings?
The Seed Library does not have a list of its offerings; all seeds currently available will be on display in the Seed Library.
Can I call or email the Library to request a list of current offerings?
The Library cannot fulfill requests for a list of current Seed Library offerings due to the shifting nature of the collection and staff time constraints.
Can Library staff put seeds on hold for me?
Library staff cannot reserve seeds; seed packets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Elmhurst Public Library is not responsible for the growth or maintenance of the seeds provided. Germination is not guaranteed. The Library is not responsible for any damage, cost, or loss resulting from the use or misuse of seeds obtained from the Seed Library.