The University Library at Texas A&M University-San Antonio has introduced a new Seed Library that provides students and employees with free seeds to grow vegetables, herbs and flowers. Located on the second floor of the library, the program aims to promote sustainability, wellness, and accessible gardening within the University community.
STEM librarian Alex Quintero Deleon said the idea was inspired by public libraries across the country that have introduced similar programs.
"We really want this to be a starting point – a seed, if you will – to their growing journey," Deleon said.
All the available seeds can thrive in South Texas growing conditions, which are marked by generally mild winters and long, intensely hot summers
"We decided to go with vegetable and herb plants that would grow well in our area of South Texas,” Deleon said. “I also wanted to choose vegetables and herbs that would be viable growing in a container or small area, as some of our students don’t have a lot of space to work with or live in the dorms."
In addition to encouraging students to participate in sustainable gardening, the Seed Library enables students to engage in a hobby that supports their well-being and provides access to homegrown herbs and vegetables.
Cat Garza, a library archivist and historian, emphasized the personal benefits of how gardening and taking care of plants can be something for people to look forward to every day.
"Gardening is such a relaxing and peaceful hobby,” she said. “Even if you just start with one small plant, it’s very rewarding and satisfying.”
And for students who live on campus or have limited means to travel to nearby grocery stores, having access to herbs and vegetables is particularly useful.
“Things like herbs that can be grown in dorm rooms are especially important," Garza said.
Students and employees who wish to “check out” seeds can head to the second floor of the library in the Research Services area and choose which seeds they want. There, they will also find resources to help them get started. Right now, budding gardeners can choose one packet per week.
Deleon said that the program, which launched a few months ago, has proven to be very popular, with a growing number of guests returning every week to get a new pack of seeds.
“It really makes me smile, she said.
Looking ahead, the University Library hopes to expand the Seed Library by adding more gardening books, exploring a collection of gardening tools for students to borrow, and developing future gardening programs.