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Free Seed Libraries

Edgewater has two free seed libraries at:

  • Bryn Mawr & Ashland Andersonville Seed Library,

    5600 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL

  • Edgewater Chicago Public Library Branch


How it Works


Much like the little free libraries you see in public these are for anyone to share seeds or information on gardening.


Borrow: Take a seed packet. Take what you need and return what you don't use.


Plant: Grow your garden with the seeds, helpful books, resources, and worksheets from the library and from EEC.


Return: Gather seeds in summer, fall, and early winter. Collect, process, store, and return them to the libraries for others to enjoy next season.


We will take all types of seeds although we are especially looking for herbs, native plants & flowers that are suitable for pollinator gardens. If you have a story to share about it we would love to hear it! Share it with the libarians or include the information with the seed packet.

If you are dropping off seeds, please ensure to harvest the seed heads, break off the seeds from the plant matter, then store in paper, and leave in a cool, dry place. Then, donate and share with community members.


Want to learn more? Check out these resource guides:


Suggested Information to Include For Donations*

  1. Crop Type

  2. Variety

  3. Year Harvested

  4. Notes/Story


Extra helpful to share:

  1. Origional seed source

  2. Open pollinated?

  3. Heriloom seed?

  4. Location grown


*credit for labeling sharing information from Roger's Park Seed Library.


Edgewater Library


5600 N Ashland Ave


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