Seed Library

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Seed Library Spring 2021 Update: Borrow Seeds via Curbside

The Seed Library has become self-service starting April 1. Stop by the side entrance to select your seeds. The cabinet holds all available seed bags and envelopes.

Our seeds are for everyone. Take only what you intend to plant, and no more than 5-10 seeds of any variety.

A list of available seeds can be found here.

Want to learn more about seeds and how to cultivate them?

  • Many of our seeds have been donated from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds. Their website has a growing guide with information on seed starting, growing, special considerations and seed saving: https://www.rareseeds.com/growing-guide
  • You may want to contact a master gardeners from the local chapter of the Cornell Cooperative Extension, Albany County. Their gardening webpage can offer you some help: http://albany.cce.cornell.edu/gardening
  • Make an appointment to browse the library’s gardening books.

Grow with Us

Stay in touch and up-to-date by joining the Seed Library listserv. Contact the library for more information. Previous letters are available through the links below:

February 2020
December 2019
Spring 2019
Fall 2018
Spring 2017
Fall 2016

The Library offers programming on how to plan, grow, and maintain gardens. Often Master Gardeners are available at programs to answer questions. In addition, we offer related programs in our Healthy Lifestyle Series.

Volunteers are always welcome! Come in and help sort seeds, update “The Seed Book,” or share your expertise at a program. For more information contact the Library at reference@voorpl.org

Share the Harvest

We will not be accepting seed donations at this time.  Please hold on to your donations until further notice.

To donate, please fill out the Seed Donation Agreement and Planting Tips forms. Forms are also available at the Information Desk in the Library.

  • Please include the full name of the type of vegetable, flower, herb or grain that grows from the seeds. For example, instead of simply writing “tomato,” consider the more descriptive “Black Prince Tomato.”
  • All seeds should be from a crop that you grew or in the commercial seed company’s envelope from which you purchased the seeds.
  • Seeds should be less than three years old (from date of harvest) and should have been dried over at least a three-week period.
  • Loose seeds should be donated in a sealed plastic bag or envelope. Some bags and envelopes are provided in the Seed Library display at the Library.
  • Please keep in mind: The Seed Library is limited to seeds for vegetables, flowers, herbs, or grains. Roots, tubers, bulbs, or seeds for trees cannot be accommodated. Seeds should be non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organism).