Seeds

Branch District Library’s Seed Library exchange program began in March 2017 at the Coldwater Branch. In 2020, the program has expanded to include our Lucille E. Dearth Union Twp. Branch. Expanding again in 2026, the Algansee Branch will host a seed library. There are vegetable and flower seeds, as well as a few heirloom varieties, available for free.

How it works:

  • Patrons may “check out” up to 10 seed packets per household – no more than 2 of the same kind.
  • Take your seed packets to the service desk to be checked out and counted.
  • Plant them and enjoy your harvest. Please allow one plant to go to seed.
  • Bring saved seeds back to the library in the fall in an envelope, paper bag, or other appropriate containers, and fill out the donation form available at the service desk.

Our seed libraries depend on donations and seasonality. To inquire about seeds in the Union Township "Roots and Shoots" seed library, please contact the Union Twp. Branch; questions about seeds from the Coldwater Branch Seed Exchange, please contact the Coldwater Branch; questions about seeds in the Algansee Seed Library, please contact the Algansee Branch. 

Instructions on collecting and drying seeds, hand pollinating, and planting times will be available. Please consider donating seeds at the end of the season to keep this program going.

Seeds are available on a first-come first-serve basis for as long as our supply lasts. Seeds will be added as they become available.

Roots and Shoots 2026 Grand Opening! 

Celebrate the garden year with refreshments, seed selections, door prizes, and time to connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts on March 14 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Union Township Branch. Meet community partners, including the Green Thumb Garden Club, Mestdagh’s by the Dam Honey, and the Branch County Conservation District.

Thank you to our 2026 seed Library Donors!

We wouldn't be able to have this program without support and donations from multiple places! 

DISCLAIMER: The library makes no claims as to the viability or purity of the seeds donated. The propagation of patented seeds is prohibited by law. The Branch District Library will not knowingly accept these seeds for distribution to our community and discourages any of our Seed Saver Exchange patrons from engaging in this illegal activity.