During this time of social distancing and staying home, we are pleased to introduce mail order Seed Library checkouts! This service is brought to you by the Friends of the Longview Public Library and is for everyone with a Longview Library card. If you are eligible for a card but don't already have one, you can sign up for one here. To order your seeds, take a look at the Crop List, then fill out and submit the form below. You can list up to 10 packets (one packet per seed variety). If there are other cardholders in your household who would like to check out seeds, please select the option to combine your order, and we'll ship your seeds in one package and save on mailing costs. Any library staff preparing orders will follow safety guidelines including wearing a mask, sanitizing surfaces, and proper hand-washing.
If you would like to save seed from crops marked "easy to save", please see the our Easy Save Guide. Seed companies are currently experiencing high demand with fewer staff, so seeds are going to be in shorter supply, making saving seed for the library even more important--Plus it's fun!
Crop List: Seeds currently available for checkout.
Easy Save Guide: Quick list of tips for saving seeds.
Planting Guide for the Maritime Northwest: A handy planting guide provided by Uprising Seeds.
Saving Seeds: Where to Start: More information about saving seeds from the Seed Savers Exchange.
Agriculture and seeds provide the basis upon which our lives depend. We must protect this foundation as a safe and genetically stable source for future generations. For the benefit of all farmers, gardeners and consumers who want an alternative, I promise that I do not knowingly buy, grow, share, or trade genetically engineered ("GMO") seeds or plants.
If returning seed, I promise to grow plants and save seeds according to best practices to insure that I return viable seed that will produce plants true to the variety I label them to be. (If you're unsure about best practices for seed saving, our materials and classes can help.)
In order to maintain a healthy population of bees, other pollinators, and soil microorganisms, it is important to limit our use of pesticides. Plants grown without pesticides are hardier and naturally adapted to withstand pests; therefore I pledge to refrain from using synthetic pesticides on seeds from the library, particularly if returning seed.
Mission Statement: The LPL Seed Library seeks to provide seed as an accessible and affordable public resource, promote biodiversity and local adaptation, educate patrons and the public on topics surrounding agriculture and horticulture, and develop a community and culture of self reliance, sustainability, and generosity.
The Purpose of the LPL Seed Library is to:
For more information about the LPL Seed Library, please call 360.442.5310 or email us.
