Libraries take a seeded interest

Published on 24 March 2022

Mornington Peninsula Libraries has launched Seed Libraries across its Rosebud, Mornington, Hastings and Somerville locations.

Library members can ‘borrow’ seeds from the library when they’re ready to plant and at the end of the growing season, keen gardeners save the seeds from these plants and return a portion of the seeds to the Seed Library for others to use.

It’s just another way Mornington Peninsula Libraries caters for its members’ health and wellbeing – not just their reading needs.

The seed libraries are a great way to have fun, build community with fellow gardeners and support people who are new to the world of gardening.

Active seed libraries preserve rare, open-pollinated or heirloom seeds and encourage gardeners to save quality seeds that are suitable for your local growing area. They encourage diversification of our food sources and protect them for future generations.

The program is also a great way to get children involved in gardening, teaching them where food comes from and that some plants don't survive or bear fruit.

Mornington Peninsula Libraries members can take up to three seed packets per visit, each with 10 to 15 seeds. Written on the packets are the plant’s name, a description and care instructions.

Visit your local library for more information or to take advantage of this great initiative.

Mornington Peninsula Libraries membership is free, and you can sign up online via ourlibrary.mornpen.vic.gov.au or visit us in-branch.