Seed Library 2024 at Arapahoe Libraries

Get ready to grow with the seed library

 

The Arapahoe Libraries Seed Library will be available at all locations, including the bookmobile for the 2024 growing season. A variety of flower, herb and vegetable seeds native to Colorado will be available free for patrons starting March 4 through May 15. Households are encouraged to collect up to three seed packets per day, with no need to return unused seeds at the end of the season. Seed packets are available while supplies last.

Last year we handed out over 6,300 seed packets to our patrons and look forward to expanding that number this year. Our goal is to empower our community to be good environmental stewards and give them the tools to begin gardening on their own. In addition to offering free seed packets, the library will host free informational events, opens a new window with our neighbors at Tagawa Gardens. The events will offer tips for beginning gardeners, debunk common gardening myths and more.

The native Colorado seeds provided promote environmental stewardship in our community by creating stable ecosystems, erosion control and biodiversity. Native plants also support habitat and forage resources for wildlife and pollinators. While we encourage our patrons to collect seeds for next year’s crop to plant or share, libraries will not accept seed returns.


Seed availability varies by location and may include: 

FLOWERS HERBS VEGETABLES
  • Sunflowers
  • Wildflowers
  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Beans
  • Bell peppers
  • Carrots
  • Corn
  • Cucumber
  • Lettuce
  • Onions
  • Peas
  • Spinach
  • Squash
  • Tomatoes

Ready to start planting?

Give your backyard, patio or container gardens a makeover with reading suggestions, digital materials and community resources for your neighborhood!

 

Tuesday, March 12,  2-3 pm: Gardening Myths at Smoky Hill Library
Thursday, April 25, 6-7 pm: Herbs Demystified at Smoky Hill Library
Friday, May 3, 2-3 pm: Heat-Loving Plants at Koelbel Library
Tuesday, May 14, 6-7 pm: Container Gardens at Smoky Hill Library

 

Our friends from Tagawa Gardens created a video of seed planting tips with written translations available in Español, opens a new window and Pусский, opens a new window.

Feedback Survey

We love hearing from you! From March 1 to May 15, complete a brief survey online when you pick up seeds and let us know how we did.

Thanks for your feedback! The seed library survey is closed.