Native Food Pathways
KBOCC Seed Lending Library
The KBOCC Seed Library is a free program committed to increasing our ability to feed ourselves wholesome food by offering seeds and education. Through the time-honored tradition of seed saving we celebrate biodiversity, nurture locally adapted plant varieties, and foster community resilience, self-reliance and a culture of sharing.
The KBOCC Seed Library operates on the honor system. You become a member automatically when you withdraw seeds to plant. We encourage all members to learn basic seed-saving techniques. We encourage that beginning seed savers grow out and return seeds from plants the first year. If you are unable to save your own seed, please consider donating a packet or two of fresh, organic, non-hybrid, non-GMO seed to keep our library stocked. Returned seed will allow us to keep the library well stocked.
What is a Seed Library?
A seed library is a community-driven resource where individuals can borrow, grow, and return seeds to ensure future generations have access to diverse and resilient plant varieties. Our collection includes heirloom, open-pollinated, and regionally adapted seeds, many of which are tied to traditional Anishinaabe agricultural practices.
HOW IT WORKS
Browse & Borrow: Students, faculty, and community members can check out seeds for home gardens, research, or community projects.
Grow & Harvest: Plant the seeds, cultivate them using sustainable methods, and enjoy the harvest.
Save & Return: Collect seeds from your healthiest plants and return a portion to the library to maintain our seed stock for future growers.
WHAT SEEDS DO WE OFFER?
Our seed library includes a variety of vegetables, herbs, and grains suited for Zone 4 growing conditions, including:
Traditional Indigenous crops – Corn, beans, squash, and sunflowers
Cold-hardy vegetables – Carrots, lettuce, onions, radishes, and kale
Herbs & Medicinals – Basil, sage, thyme, oregano, and parsley
Pollinator-friendly plants – Native flowers and companion planting species
GET INVOLVED
Donate Seeds: Have extra seeds? We welcome contributions, especially Indigenous heirloom and cold-hardy varieties.
Volunteer: Help with seed sorting, packaging, and educational workshops.
Attend Workshops: Learn about seed saving, gardening, and sustainable agriculture.
Visit Us!
GARDENING RESOURCES
We also offer a selection of gardening books for those looking to expand their knowledge on seed saving, organic gardening, and sustainable agriculture. If you’re looking for additional resources, we highly recommend visiting the Ojibwa Community Library in Baraga, which has a broader selection of gardening and agricultural books.
VISIT US!
The KBOCC Seed Library is located in the college library and is open to students, faculty, and the wider community. For more information, donations, or questions, contact us at reedwards@kbocc.edu.
Join us in preserving the past and growing for the future!