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 13th).
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
at Instagram.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.
