By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY
Salina Post
An idea that took root in 2021 has grown into a popular spring offering at the Salina Public Library.
Back for another spring planting season is Salina Public Library's seed library!
“I was inspired to start a seed library as an outside-of-the-box way to connect with the community and bring people closer together,” said Allyson Ronning, head of circulation and seed library mastermind. “This was a small gesture, strategically rolled out just before spring, to hopefully bring a little shared sunshine and happiness back to Salina.”
The seed library is tucked into a nook in the main lobby area of the library, 301 W. Elm Street. A variety of seeds are available, including flower, fruit, vegetable, and herb seeds. Seeds are restocked as needed and vary from day to day.
Patrons are limited to four seed packets per visit and no checkout is required. Additionally, growing guides, both printed versions and those accessed via QR code, are available. Books about gardening also are nearby.
“The benefits of a seed library are many,” Ronning said. “It is a way to have fun, it can be used for educational purposes (at home or in the classroom), it provides a free and sustainable food source to patrons, builds community with fellow gardeners, and supports people who are new to the world of gardening.”
The popularity of the seed library soared in its first year, with more than 1,300 seed packets being picked up in the first month of the seed library being open. Last year, approximately 7,300 packets of seeds were distributed.