Q: I was recently at Hickory Flat Library with my grandchildren and noticed a light gray chest filled with packets of seeds. Can you tell me about this?
A: A collaboration between UGA Cherokee County Extension Agent, Josh Fuder, Cherokee County Master Gardeners and the Sequoyah Regional Library System created this first seed lending library, according to extension.uga.edu.
The program began March 8, 2016, and is free to the public. It is supported by volunteers and donations.
Inside the library’s main entrance you will see a small gray antique dresser on the right. It’s been retro-fitted for the seed packets.
“There has been a lot of interest as word has spread,” said Laurie Darrow, manager of Hickory Flat Library in Canton, in a phone interview with the AJC.
Master gardeners and seed companies have donated the seeds. Instructions for planting and plant information is provided.
The goal, according to the program, is “to preserve the area’s agricultural heritage by promoting the use of regionally adapted seed, building genetic diversity and strengthening food security through education and a culture of sharing.”
Two additions to the seed lending libraries are now at Rose Creek in Woodstock and the Ball Ground Public library. “Libraries are trending towards offering other things besides books,” said Brenda Biehl, branch manager for Rose Creek.
“It is something different and has taken off very well.”
The seed library is organized by categories of seed (vegetables, herbs, flowers) and labeled “easy” or “advanced,” according to the website.
On recent Monday, the library was quiet, as you would expect. The seed library is located next to the children’s book section, which was busy with mothers watching their children.
The Hickory Flat Library is across from Hickory Flat Elementary School at 2740 E Cherokee Drive in Canton.
For more information, visit extension.uga.edu/county-offices/cherokee.html or contact the library of your choice.
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