Seed Libraries

Community-based initiatives to preserve and protect our food supply Cindy Conner introduces a movement to keep seeds in the hands of the people while revitalizing public libraries and communities. Ira Wallace, author, The Timber Press Guide to Vegetable Gardening in the Southeast ...a must-read for anyone embarking on the task of setting up their own seed library, or those just interested in becoming more informed on the issue of genetic diversity in our food systems. Paul Hrycyk, Seed Library Coordinator, Seeds of Diversity OVER THE PAST few generations, multinational corporations have seized the lion's share of the seed market, squeezing out small, regional, family-run companies and causing biodiversity to suffer. In recent years, gardeners have come to realize the inherent danger in this situation. Seed saving is the first step on the road to reclaiming control of our harvest while expanding the available stock of heritage and heirloom varieties of fruits and vegetables. Seed Libraries is a practical guide to saving and sharing seeds through communitybased programs, including: Step-by-step instructions for setting up a seed library A wealth of ideas to help attract patrons and keep the momentum going Examples of existing libraries and other types of seed-saving partnerships. Whoever controls the seeds controls the food supply. Empowering communities to preserve and protect the genetic diversity of their harvest, Seed Libraries is a powerful tool to help enhance self-reliance while ensuring that the future of our food is healthy, vibrant, tasty and nutritious. Seed Libraries opens wide a door to the world of seed saving for the curious and committed alike. Vicki Robin, author, Blessing the Hands that Feed Us Cindy Conner is a permaculture educator, founder of Homeplace Earth and the producer of two popular instructional DVDs on sustainable gardening. She is also the author of Grow a Sustainable Diet . To help bring you the very best inspiration and information about greener, more sustainable lifestyles, Mother Earth News is recommending select New Society Publishers books to its readers. This book is one of them.