Library Farms and Gardens
More and more now, libraries are getting into community gardening. People can “check out” plots or raised bed spaces. It’s great because they usually work with local extensions or experts, so that even people new to growing veggies and fruit can get off to a good start and get help along the way. Plus, not everyone has the space to really garden.
A few library farms and gardens we know:
Checotah library offers community garden spots
In New York – Northern Onondaga Public Library News: Library Farm Plots available for ‘check-out’
Pauls Valley Library has demo plots next to the library and has workshops through their extension.
The Miami Public Library has been into community gardening for a while now.
The Beaver County Pioneer Library has done gardening with kids, also working with their extension.
Gardens and libraries bring people together. If you want to get started, commandeer that abandoned spot next to the library or that weedy patch of grass surrounding your grounds. Then, get in touch with an expert, starting with your local extension office.
Books and Websites to Help
These will help you get started. You’ll see how easy and cheap it is to make a community garden for growing veggies and fruit. While food gardens are the rage, think about the landscape around the library. With people wanting to gather but needing room to spread out, outdoor spaces are more important than ever. There are many good reasons to have outdoor garden “rooms” with tables, seating and strong WiFi.
Inspiration and Guidance: Let’s Move in Libraries – Gardening
From Shareable: Community gardens are cropping up at public libraries everywhere
A good book from ALA: Libraries and Gardens: Growing Together