Waimakariri Libraries are launching revamped seed libraries in all three libraries for our community to borrow, grow, and return seeds to the collection.

To celebrate the relaunch, we are hosting Seed Saving Workshops to learn from local gardening and community groups, to gain knowledge about seed saving, and seed raising.

Some seeds, soil, and containers will be provided but bring your own seeds to exchange, recycled containers to sow your seeds, and plants to swap if you can.

Seed exchange initiatives contribute to increase agricultural biodiversity, preserve heritage and heirloom cultivars, and through education, and activities support community food security.

The libraries are also launching a ‘Seed Guardians’ role for children and youth as an approved activity for Children’s University.

‘Seed Guardians’ learn how to connect with local community groups and learning destinations like Kaiapoi Food Forest, and Eco Educate, for children and youth to volunteer at community planting days, and other activities to save seeds for the seed libraries and earn further stamps on their Passport to Learning.

Become a local hero and grow with us at the following times and locations:

Rangiora Library: Wednesday 8 April 1.30-3pm.

Oxford Library: Thursday 9 April 1.30-3pm.

Kaiapoi Library: Friday 10 April 1.30-3pm.

Free to participate.