Step into a seed library and you'll discover a wealth of seed collections and gardening knowledge. A seed library collects and stores seeds that allows gardeners to “borrow” donated seeds for free. Many libraries offer detailed planting calendars that tell you exactly when to start different seeds in your area, growing guides that walk you through basic techniques, and seasonal tips for garden success. You might even find yourself chatting with an experienced gardener who can show you their tried-and-true method for growing tomatoes or swap gardening stories with a neighbor who's planning their first vegetable patch.

At the end of the growing season, gardeners can save seeds from the plants they grew and return additional seeds to the library. Once donated, seeds are labeled and packaged so they can be “checked out” for the next growing season.

Marie Steckmest, a UC Master Gardener of Marin County, has been instrumental in starting seed libraries across Marin County since 2023. For Marie, getting seed libraries up and running is about “being able to help people learn about gardening, get  native seeds (seed varieties) that they normally wouldn't have access to,  see how previous non-gardeners get excited by seeing their seeds germinate and grow and even save seeds, helping people learn how to save seeds, seeing kids and parents making seed balls together.”  

Seed libraries can be found at public libraries, community gardens, and local seed networks. When you visit a seed library, you can choose from a variety of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds that grow well in your area. Take them home, plant them in your garden, and watch them grow!

Seed library in Marin County. Photo Credit: Marie Steckmest, UC Master Gardener of Marin County

Growing Communities Through Seed Libraries

In Marin County, UC Master Gardeners have created an impressive network of six seed libraries throughout their public library system, with a goal of having a seed library at every public library in their county. Marin County librarians report remarkable success, with one branch alone distributing more than 9,000 packets of seeds in two years. The libraries contain vegetable, herb, flower, and native seeds, with seasonal varieties donated by local nurseries and hardware stores. “The seed library at my branch is very popular with patrons. Frequently, we run out of packets. I have witnessed numerous conversations between patrons about seeds as they look at the selection. Children are especially fascinated by the seeds, which engage the parents as well,” shares Amanda Tomlin, Novato Librarian.

Community members at a seed library event in Marin County. Photo Credit: Marie Steckmest, UC Master Gardener of Marin County

Similarly, the UC Master Gardener Program of Santa Clara County has found a creative way to bring seeds direct to the community through its 'Little Free Seed Libraries' project.   These small, standalone structures are built from recycled materials, including repurposed windows for doors, and provide seeds, gardening books, and educational materials at community gardens throughout the South Bay region. The project has been a great success, making seeds and gardening knowledge more accessible to a wider audience.

Santa Clara Seed Library. Photo Credit: UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara

The UC Master Gardener Program of Sacramento County's seed library specializes in helping gardeners grow herbs, ornamentals, and edible plants while reducing their carbon footprint. They focus on non-genetically modified heirlooms and wild seeds specifically chosen for Sacramento's unique weather conditions, helping ensure gardening success in their climate.

The Yucaipa Seed Library, located in San Bernardino County, is a testament to the adaptability of seed libraries. When COVID-19 restricted library access, the library didn't falter. Instead, UC Master Gardeners, Adam Wagner and Jillian Kowalczuk, partnered with organizations like Unity Church and Oasis Botanical Sanctuary to keep seeds available to gardeners. Through partnerships, workshops, and creative solutions, they've shown that seed libraries can adapt to serve their community's needs under any circumstance. This adaptability is a testament to the strength and resilience of the seed library movement.

In Imperial County, the UC Master Gardener Program has centered its seed library to celebrate local food culture. At the City of Imperial Public Library, UC Master Gardener volunteers stock seeds that reflect their community's heritage and cooking traditions. You'll find chiltepin peppers, a favorite among gardeners with Mexican heritage, alongside other treasures like Roselle hibiscus for making agua de jamaica—their demonstration garden bursts with chile güero, jalapeño, serrano, and habanero peppers during summer months. By focusing on culturally significant plants, they've created a space where gardening and heritage grow together.

UC Master Gardeners with their seed library in Imperial County. Photo Credit: Kristian M Salgado-Jacobo, UC Master Gardener Regional Operations Specialist

Join the Seed Library Movement

Want to be part of this growing community? Check your local library or seed swapping network for a seed library location near you. If you don't have one, reach out to your local UC Master Gardener Program—they often help communities start new seed libraries and can point you in the right direction.

Every seed you borrow or share helps strengthen your local food system and build connections with fellow gardeners. Whether you're growing your first tomato plant or saving seeds from your prize-winning squash, you'll find a welcoming community ready to help you succeed. After all, gardening isn't just a hobby—it's a way to put a little more joy (and a lot more tomatoes) into your life.