Helen Matthes Library Starting a Seed Library

Helen Matthes Library has announced that it has received grant funding from the Lumpkin Foundation to begin a seed library for the Effingham community.

Seed libraries are libraries that make heirloom seeds available for checkout.  Library patrons can check out seeds and attend classes to learn how best to propagate the seeds.  Subsequently, patrons plant seeds in either their own backyards or cooperate with the Effingham Park District in leasing a small plot for their seeds.  Afterward they can attend classes on how to save their seeds properly, returning a portion of their seeds to the library for future use by other growers and thereby beginning the process again.

“We are so excited to offer this unique resource to the Effingham community, and especially pleased to partner with the Lumpkin Family Foundation in encouraging the localization of our food system. Because we were able to partner with local expert organizations, like the University of Illinois Master Gardeners and Lake Land College’s Horticulture Club, we will be able provide opportunities for participants to learn how to best start seeds, how to best harvest seeds for saving and how to best preserve the food that is grown,” said Johnna Schultz, Adult Services Manager.  Seeds and resources from the seed library will be available for borrowing by library users at the end of July, which experts say is the perfect time to consider a fall garden.

For further information call Johnna Schultz, Adult Services Manager at 217-342-2464 x3, or email her at johnna@effinghamlibrary.org