Cultivating Community: The Seed Library
Hey there, Mamas!
I am the Director of Community Health and the facilitator of the Healthy Acadiana Coalition at United Way of Acadiana. I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you. In April, in collaboration with several wonderful community partners, our coalition came together with a common goal: to open The Seed Library.
We’re super enthusiastic about encouraging a healthier lifestyle and healthier community! That’s why we decided to create a fun and inclusive space where families like ours can hang out, learn about gardening, and embrace a love for nature and well-being. It’s all about having a blast!
This fantastic initiative at the Lafayette Public Library on Congress Street can help you and your little ones embark on a thrilling gardening journey together.
But wait, there’s more!
The Children’s Museum of Acadiana has a kid’s gardening club that perfectly complements The Seed Library, providing even more opportunities for your kids to explore the world of gardening.
What is The Seed Library?
The Seed Library is an exciting project brought to life by the Healthy Acadiana, 24 Hr Citizen Project and United Way of Acadiana. It allows you to “check out” seeds just like borrowing books, providing an opportunity to explore the wonders of gardening and nature as a family. Soon, the library will also have classes taught by experienced folks in the community who will teach classes on gardening, seed saving, and other fun things.
How does it work?
- Borrowing Seeds: The Seed Library operates on a simple and easy-to-understand system. Take your kids to the Lafayette Public Library, and together, you can browse through the collection of seeds available. Like choosing books, your gardeners can check out 2 packets of seeds per library card. The library staff is always ready to help you pick the perfect seeds, making it a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your kids.
- Planting and Growing: Armed with the “borrowed” seeds you and your kids can create a magical garden, whether you have a backyard or just a small windowsill. Through gardening, you’ll not only teach your kids about sustainable agriculture but also nurture their love and respect for nature and the environment.
Seed Saving and Donation: The Seed Library encourages you and your little gardeners to become seed savers. As your plants mature and produce fruits, vegetables, or flowers, your kids will have the chance to save some of the seeds from the strongest and healthiest plants they’ve grown. By becoming seed savers, your kids will learn valuable lessons about life cycles, nurturing, and the marvel of how one tiny seed can give life to so much more.
So, gather your little gardeners and head to The Seed Library at the Lafayette Public Library. And don’t forget to join the Kids Gardening Club at the Children’s Museum of Acadiana for even more garden-inspired experiences.
Together, you’ll cultivate a love for nature, sustainable living, and community bonding, all while having a ton of fun.
Also, don’t forget to share your photos with us if you borrow seeds, grow them, and if you harvest/cook with your bounty.
