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Seed library new service in Jefferson County

By From STAFF REPORTS 2 min read
Contributed NEW FEATURE — Erika Lyon, OSU Extension educator, agriculture and natural resources, stands next to the seed library catalog at the Main Library of the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County. Seeds are free to the public to take or leave.

STEUBENVILLE --A new service in partnership with the Ohio State University Extension and Master Gardeners is sprouting at the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County.

A seed library where the public can check out or drop off seeds is now available at the Main Library, and it’s free.

“The seed library aims to inspire current and future gardeners to try planting a variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers in their gardens,” said Erika Lyons, OSU Extension educator.

“The idea formed a year ago when the Master Gardeners approached the library about donating horticultural and 4-H books,” said Jenn Cesta, the library’s public relations coordinator. “The conversation evolved to provide seeds to the public for free.”

An old card catalog from the library has been recycled to store the seeds and is located in the adult section on the first floor. Patrons can take up to three packets of seeds per visit. Patrons can share seeds, too. Anyone who wants to donate seeds can drop them off at the front desk at the Main Library. The Master Gardeners will confirm seeds and then package them for checkout at a later time.

If you’ve already started sowing seeds outdoors don’t worry, it’s not too late to add more. Plants to sow in the months of June and July include beans, cucumbers, eggplants, sweet corn and many more.

Visit the library during regular operating hours to check out the seed library. Horticultural and 4-H books are available next to the seed library for checkout with a library card.

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