GREEN NEWS & VIEWS
in the public domain and preserving biodiversity. They’ve participated in the International Seed Library Forum, created seed saving resources, and created a platform for community seed stewards to connect with each other. Additionally, Going to Seed (https://goingtoseed.org/) is a social change organization that provides gardeners and farmers with the knowledge, skills, and resources to grow locally adapted, genetically diverse crops. They offer free courses, resources, and seeds to empower individuals and communities to cultivate resilience in their local food systems. Now, there are thousands of seed libraries all over the world. The Seed Library Network serves as one such platform where seed librarians can connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate on initiatives to support seed sovereignty and community resilience. They also offer invaluable resources for starting a seed library, saving seeds, and chatting with like-minded seed librarians through their UpBeet! Forum. Starting your own seed library typically involves a few key steps and considerations. While guidelines, standards, and rules may vary depending on location and organizational structure, several resources offer valuable guidance for aspiring seed librarians: • Seed Library Network: In addition to hosting a map of seed libraries around the world, they also provide comprehensive guidance on starting and maintaining a seed library. They cover topics including library organization, check out procedures, outreach strategies, and seed sources. (http://seedlibraries.weebly.com/seed-library-network. html) • Richmond Grows: As one of the first seed libraries in the world, Richmond Grows serves as an excellent example of a long standing, successful seed library. A local model of sustainability, they offer support to other seed libraries for free and non-commercial purposes. They even have a step-by-step guide to get aspiring seed librarians started. (www.richmondgrowsseeds.org/) • American Library Association (ALA): The ALA also provides resources and support for libraries interested in sustainability initiatives, including seed libraries. Librarians can access toolkits, articles, and networking opportunities through the ALA to learn about best practices and connect with other seed library practitioners. (www. ala.org/) Local Libraries: Cultivating Seed Sharing in the DMV Region If you’re looking for a seed library in your area, check out the Seed Library Network’s map for your nearest location. However, don’t be surprised if you aren’t a bit disappointed. Although previous seed law restrictions have been clarified, seed libraries remain relatively scarce in the DMV area. However, a few notable initiatives have emerged. For instance, the Talbot County Library in Easton, Md., has maintained a seed library for several years, providing a valuable resource for local gardeners. In Washington, DC, Share a Seed (www.slowfooddc.org/share-a-seed) operates as a mutual aid seed sharing and growing program, connecting under- resourced community members with the tools and mentorship needed for gardening success. Meanwhile, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, VA, empowers individuals to grow their own food and fosters a culture of sharing within the community (www.lewisginter. org/). While Maryland has seen some seed libraries, I’m excited to an - nounce the forthcoming opening of one in Prince George’s County,
marking a significant step forward for seed access and community re - silience in the region. The Prince George’s County Free Seed Library represents more than just a collection of seeds — it embodies a shared vision of learn- ing, sharing, and growing together. This endeavor stands as a testa- ment to the dedication of our community, driven by the belief in the transformative power of seeds to nourish our bodies, nurture our land, and sustain our communities. The connection between public libraries and seed libraries is pro- found, as public libraries often serve as cornerstones of their commu- nities, as well as accessible hubs for knowledge sharing and resource access. By hosting PG County’s first Seed Library at the Hyattsville Branch Library, we’re not only celebrating this valuable resource but also reinforcing the role of libraries as cornerstones of community en- gagement and empowerment. The Seed Library Kickoff event is set to take place in April, so keep an eye out for updates on this exciting event! Seed libraries are an integral part of the modern food system, and they foster good health and local engagement. I hope more communi - ties will rally behind investing in initiatives like seed libraries, so we can collectively cultivate a future where biodiversity thrives, commu- nities flourish, and resilience abounds. And I cherish the opportunity to help create one in my own community. Ciara O’Brien is a freelance writer from Bowie, MD. She loves writing about sustainable farming, equitable food access, and the state of our food system today. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending to her gar - den, teaching Yoga, or going on long walks with her chocolate lab, Hershey. See more of her work at www.writtenbyciara.com.
PATHWAYS—Spring 24—27
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