Science & Technology Librarian University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
The emergence of one unique type of library, the seed library, is a growing trend in the library world: these collections of freely-available, “lendable” seeds may serve a variety of purposes, from preserving biodiversity to supporting home gardening communities. In the context of an academic library, they may serve as educational resources and outreach tools. The first seed library at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was launched this spring, and is housed in the Kenan Science Library Makerspace. With a collection featuring native North Carolina plants and other popular varieties, it lives in a retired card catalog. This poster will outline how seed libraries work, the process of starting this one, and how the Seed Library may be used to build connections and complement other hands-on resources in a science library. The objective of this project was to create a new resource that would both fit alongside existing university tools and initiatives, and help the science library connect with the rest of UNC’s campus and surrounding community. Preparation for launching the Seed Library consisted of background research, budgeting, planning, and acquiring and organizing materials, and promotion. The launch event had a high turnout and the Seed Library has experienced steady use ever since. We conclude that the Seed Library is a beneficial addition to our science library and its makerspace, and recommend that other libraries seeking to start one research their local area’s native plant species, connect with related organizations, and develop a promotion plan.
