Hennepin County Seed Libraries: Where to Get Free Seeds in 2025
Looking to get your hands dirty this gardening season? Hennepin County Library’s seed library program has you covered. You can check out free seeds along with your books at select branches.
As of 2025, the seed-lending libraries at the Eden Prairie, Hosmer, Nokomis, and St. Louis Park branches are stocked for spring and fall planting. (Tip: availability varies by season and supply.)
The idea is simple: browse the seed catalogs, take what interests you, then grow fruits, veggies, herbs, and flowers at home. After harvest, save some seeds and return them to help keep the library’s collection thriving.
“We’re cultivating a community of growers,” says Jackie White, seed library curator at Eden Prairie. “Developing local, resilient seed stocks matters. We accept only heirloom, untreated donations for pure seed diversity.”
The project partners with local groups such as Master Gardeners, Plant-Grow-Share, Seed Feeds, and Seed Sages to support donations and hands-on education. Look for seasonal classes on seed starting, seed saving, and pollinator gardens.
In its inaugural year (2023), Eden Prairie’s seed library proved popular, with more than 16,000 seed packets going home with gardeners of all ages. Recent seasons have continued strong interest; arrive early for best selection.
Got extra produce? Many local food shelves accept fresh donations. Ask your branch librarian for current guidelines and drop-off locations.
Ready to grow? Visit your nearest Hennepin County Library seed branch, grab a few packets, and start planting today.
