The Rutherford County Library System is celebrating the launch of its first Seed Library, located at the Technology Engagement Center.
Patrons of RCLS will be able to take home seeds to plant for their own gardening enjoyment! The seed collection (donated by the Tractor Supply Company, store #191) has seasonal vegetables, flowers, and herbs. These have all been repackaged into TEC Seed Library envelopes. As this is a new venture, the collection is finite as well as seasonal. At the moment, cool weather vegetables (peas, radishes, greens, lettuces) are available, along with those that you may want to start indoors now to set out in late April or early May when the soil is warm enough (tomatoes, peppers, etc.). Other seeds will become available later in the season.
This project was developed by TEC Branch Manager Kathleen Tyree and staff, with input from the Murfreesboro Community Garden, to help promote gardening and access to healthy foods for the community.
Some Seed Libraries ask that you save seed from your harvest and return it at the end of the gardening year, but this is new for us, so it is not yet part of the TEC Seed Library program. All you need do is visit the TEC and explore the offerings in the Seed Library cabinet. If you want to take seeds home with you, there is a membership form to fill out that helps us inventory the collection. “Checking out” the seeds this way with the Front Desk allows us to keep track of what is still available and what is most popular.
The Rutherford County Master Gardeners have organized several basic gardening classes that will assist those using the Seed Library, though all are welcome. Classes are on Sundays at 1:30 at the Technology Engagement Center, 306 Minerva Dr.
We would be thrilled to see any photos of your gardening experiences. Tag us on Instagram (#RCLSTN) in their story or on your own page, we'll share on ours. Or email photos to us at info-tec@rclstn.org. Thanks and have fun!