The Twisp library is housing more than books and periodicals these days. Community members can now borrow seeds to harvest their own food.

“Libraries are an all-inclusive resource for people. Not everyone can afford to buy seeds,” says Twisp librarian Ree West. “It’s important for everybody to be able to grow food if they want to. We’re trying to make seeds available to everyone.”

No library card is needed for these seeds. Borrowers can browse a seed catalog and select one seed packet of each variety from the repurposed library card catalog. A binder on top of the card catalog has seed packet instructions that are available to take home. Borrowers are asked to record their selection before taking the seeds. In return, borrowers are asked to donate some of their seeds following their harvest. The program is an effort to feed the body and the mind.

The program aims to make gardening accessible to people who aren’t typically gardeners. The library has been sponsoring a series of classes to educate the public about gardening. Their fourth class, taught by Master Gardeners in the Methow Valley, will be about water-wise plants that thrive in our environment. The class will be held at the Twisp library on Thursday, May 16 from 6-7 pm.

West said the idea isn’t new and seed libraries have existed for a while. The program is sponsored by Twisp Library Friends and other donors. Next year, the seeds will be purchased wholesale from Methow Valley Seed Collective.

  • Twisp librarian Ree West informs the public about the new Twisp Seed Library at the library booth on Arbor Day at Twisp Commons Park on April 20, 2024. The Twisp Seed Library launched this week.
  • A library card catalog houses seeds from the Twisp Seed Library.
  • Seeds from the Twisp Seed Library are separated into packets for home use. The program is sponsored by Friends of the Library and donations.
  • Seeds from the Twisp Seed Library are separated into packets for home use. The program is sponsored by Friends of the Library and donations.

I am the founder and editor of Methow Valley Examiner, an online publication for locals, by locals. We explore stories beyond the headlines.

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