Madison Reporter

Madison Public Library has commenced its annual Garden Seed Giveaway, starting today, March 6. The initiative is available at eight library locations, excluding the Central Library. Visitors can collect a variety of flower, herb, and produce seeds free of charge.

Hannah Majeska, a Community Engagement Librarian involved in the program's success, explained the timing: “We begin giving away seeds in March so that growers have eight weeks before the last frost to start preparing their gardens and starting some of the earlier plants indoors prior to transplanting them outdoors.” She added that they aim to consider different growing seasons for various plants offered.

This year, around 50 species of seeds are available. The library modifies its orders annually based on public feedback and observations. Flowers and herbs have consistently been popular choices across all locations.

The Seed Library was introduced to Madison Public Library as part of a county-wide initiative in 2014. After initial funding ended, it continued with support from Friends of Madison Public Library and Madison Public Library Foundation. Over eleven years, both the variety of seeds and participating locations have expanded.

Majeska noted last year's distribution: “Last year we gave away more than 46,000 individual seed packets, which was more than double what we had distributed in 2023.” This increase is attributed to adding Monroe Street, Hawthorne, and Alicia Ashman Libraries as new pickup points alongside growing community demand.

Community involvement extends beyond picking up seeds; volunteers participate in annual seed packaging events organized by the library. These gatherings offer opportunities for community members to package bulk seeds while engaging with neighbors and staff about gardening.

Seeds are available while supplies last at each location. Each packet contains 10-15 seeds suitable for home or community garden plots. No library card is required to access the Seed Library services; however, once stocks run out this season, restocking will occur next winter featuring native Wisconsin plant seeds.

The Seed Library also inspires additional resources such as gardening book lists and programs designed by library staff to support community gardening efforts further.

“The seed library is important for a number of reasons," Majeska said. "The ability to grow one's own food -- whether in garden beds or containers -- promotes food security. Eating fresh vegetables and fruits supports physical health. Gardening is also a mindful activity that encourages folks to get outdoors and connect with nature.”

Free seed packets can be collected at Alicia Ashman Library [733 N. High Point Rd], Goodman South Library [2222 S. Park St], Hawthorne Library [2707 E Washington Ave], Lakeview Library [2845 N Sherman Ave], Meadowridge Library [5726 Raymond Rd], Monroe Street Library [1705 Monroe Street], Pinney Library [516 Cottage Grove Rd], Sequoya Library [4340 Tokay Blvd].

For more information about Madison Public Library’s Seed Library or volunteering opportunities visit madpl.org/seedlibrary.

Madison Public Library has promoted education, literacy, and community involvement for over 150 years enriching the City of Madison's cultural fabric.