The Dane County Seed Library is a self-sustaining seed exchange program. Much like checking out a book at the library, this program allows community members to “check out” seed packets of ~15 different vegetable varieties for at-home gardening. After growing and harvesting the vegetables, participants are encouraged to return seeds to the library they checked the seeds out from. This helps ensure a continuous supply of seeds and keeps the program running.
Participating Libraries
*Availability may be affected by COVID-19. Contact non-Madison libraries directly for more information.
Curbside Pickup
Yes, seeds are available for curbside pickup at participating Madison libraries, Goodman South and Lakeview!
Patrons can request seeds by calling 608-315-5151 or emailing Goodman South Library or Lakeview Library. Staff at the library you plan to pick up seeds from will contact you within a couple days and schedule a curbside appointment.
Please note, just like with our books, there is a limited number of seeds in the collection.
Seeds Available at participating Madison Libraries
- Lettuces
- Red sails (leaf)
- Buttercrunch Butterhead (head)
- Herbs
- Chives
- Rosemary
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Greens
- Olympia Spinach
- Bloomsdale Spinach
- Vates Collards
- Red Russian Kale
- Bush Green Beans
- Sugarsnap Peas
- Early Wonder Tall Top Beets
Funding
The Dane County Seed Library was started in 2014 with a $5,000 grant provided by the John A. Johnson Fund and an anonymous donor through the Madison Community Foundation.
Seed Library display at Oregon Public Library