Seed library

Borrow seeds, grow something new, and give back to your community. The Louisville Public Library Seed Library is free and open to everyone with a library card.

How it works

The Seed Library is located on the second floor, near the Acme Lab. Browse the collection, take up to two seed packets, grow your plants, and return harvested seeds in the fall so others can grow them next season.

The Seed Library is open year-round. We stop restocking seeds in mid to late summer when the growing season winds down.

Our seeds come from seed company donations, seeds returned by patrons, and donations from community members. Many are donated commercial packets or backyard harvest seeds. Because of this, germination (how many seeds successfully sprout) may be lower than expected. We recommend planting a few extra seeds per spot just in case. Surprise plants are part of the fun!

Donate seeds

We gladly accept unopened commercial seed packets and homegrown seeds labeled with the plant name. Please bring donations to the Adult Services desk on the second floor.

Why a seed library

Whether you are a first-time gardener or a seasoned grower, the Seed Library is a great way to experiment, try new plants, connect with fellow gardeners, and support native pollinators and local biodiversity.

The Herbarium

While you are here, check out the Herbarium in the library breezeway. It features a curated collection of preserved native plants collected by City of Louisville certified ecologists from our local open space.

The Herbarium is a partnership between the Louisville Public Library and the Louisville Open Space staff. It is a great way to learn about the plants and flowers native to our area.

Whether you are a curious beginner or a seasoned botanist, there is something here for you.