Seed Library

What is a seed library?

A Seed Library is a collection of seeds that gardeners can take home and plant themselves. 

Where is the seed library at NSU?

The seed library is located on the first floor of the Alvin Sherman Library. Head back to the Public and Community Services Department (you know, the "kids' area") and look to your left.

How do I borrow seeds?

This is a self-serve collection available to anyone. Look through the available seed envelopes, find one you like, and take them home. We do ask that you take no more than 3 seed envelopes at a time so that others can enjoy, too. Each packet has the name of the seed and you can find more information about growing them on our Plant Care Guides.

Where do you get the seeds?

We get the seeds mainly from donations and from local organizations, like Science Alive and HOPE. If you are interested in partnering with us, please email pshaw1@nova.edu.

Do I have to save seeds and return them to you?

Not at all, but it does help us continue our seed library, so we highly encourage you to do so.

Do you take donations?

Yes! Please put your seeds in an envelope and label them with the name of the plant, any variety information, the quantity of seeds, your name or organization, and the date you harvested them. Then bring the envelope to the red and blue desk on the first floor of the library and give it to a library staff member. Find more information here: Saving Your Seeds.

Are there donations you won't accept?

Yes! Florida is a delicate environment that houses many native flora & fauna that are greatly affected by the introduction of new species. We will not be collecting the seeds of species identified as invasive. For more information about invasive species, please visit the Florida Invasive Species Council who updates their list of invasives every 2 years.