Library

Seed Libraries

The Irving Public Library Seed Library program cultivates community sustainability by offering free seeds and practical gardening support to local residents.

Seed Library Program

The City of Irving Public Library has established a Seed Library program to support community gardening, sustainable agriculture and local biodiversity. This initiative allows community members to check out packets of seeds—much like borrowing books—from the library for free. The program provides a selection of vegetable, herb and flower seeds. Each packet is accompanied by clear planting, care and harvesting instructions. Seeds may vary by location.

Participants are encouraged to follow a simple process: borrow seeds, plant and nurture them in personal or community gardens and then save a portion of the harvest to return to the library. This return of seeds helps replenish the collection for future use, creating a cycle of renewal and shared resources. The guidelines for seed return are straightforward, ensuring that even those new to gardening can participate with confidence.

The program is open to all community members regardless of gardening experience. The library offers additional support through printed materials, workshops and occasional seed swap events. All program resources are aimed at enhancing participants' gardening skills and understanding of sustainable practices. By borrowing seeds, growing local varieties and contributing back to the library’s collection, the community actively participates in preserving genetic diversity and reducing reliance on commercial seed sources.

This Seed Library program exemplifies the City of Irving’s commitment to fostering practical community engagement and environmental stewardship. For more detailed information or to participate, residents are encouraged to visit the library. Be sure to stay up to date on the latest library programs with the digital version of Beyond the Stacks, as the library also offers gardening programs from time to time.

Checkout Procedures by Location

To use South's seed library, stop by the first floor checkout desk and ask to signup for the seed record. Fill out an envelope for each kind of seed being selected and take them to the checkout desk.

For those visiting Valley Ranch and wishing to checkout packets of seeds, please visit the reference desk and ask the librarian. The librarian will provide the seed cabinet for the patron to browse. Present the selected packets to the librarian for checkout. Each packet should have a label with a basic growing guide.

At West Irving Library, patrons can browse the available options in the seed catalog binder located in the reference collection. Patrons can select the slips corresponding to the seeds desired and go to the checkout desk to receive the items. Patrons will also receive a basic guide for growing the selected item. View West's seed options here.