Come Check Out Seeds! Seed Library Buds at Patterson Library and Brewster Public Library

May 10, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Stefanie Hubert
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County
845-278-6738 x223sh379@cornell.edu

Come Check Out Seeds! Seed Library Buds at Patterson Library and Brewster Public Library

Brewster, NY – You can now borrow more than just books at two libraries in Putnam County. Seed libraries in the Patterson Library and Brewster Public Library will offer free seeds to check out, lowering the financial barrier to gardening and encouraging gardeners of all ages to grow their own vegetables, herbs, and pollinator friendly plants.

How does it work? In each library there is a seed station where individuals can pick out seeds packets to “borrow” from the library. Master Gardener Volunteers supplied printed educational resources to help curious gardeners learn seed starting techniques, planting dates, and seed saving methods. At the end of the growing season, growers are encouraged to return some seeds back to the seed library, replenishing for next year.

Seed libraries are part of a growing movement to increase food sovereignty, known as the right for people to abundant, healthy, and culturally appropriate foods grown in ecologically sound methods. Buying seeds to start an entire new garden can add up. Seed libraries make it a bit more financially feasible to start growing food without fronting a large bill. Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteers raise funds to support community projects like this by hosting an annual plant sale (this year on May 13^th).

Seed libraries are also a great way to build community with fellow gardeners and help preserve heirloom varieties that grow well in our region and promote pollinator livelihoods.

The seed library is stocked with unique vegetables, herbs, and flowers from Hudson Valley Seed Company.

For more information call Stefanie Hubert, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam Executive Director at 845-278-6738 ext. 223, or email sh379@cornell.edu.

For information about Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County’s community programs and events go to putnam.cce.cornell.edu/. Stay connected to CCEPC on Facebook at Facebook.com/cceputnam, and Instagram atInstagram.com/cceputnam and Twitter/@CCEPUTNAM

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County provides equal program and employment opportunities. Please contact our office at 845-278-6738 if you have any special needs.

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Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. If you have a disability and are having trouble accessing this information or need materials in an alternate format, contact putnam@cornell.edu for assistance.