The Indianapolis Public Library’s Seed Library Returns for 2026 Growing Season

INDIANAPOLIS – As gardening season approaches, The Indianapolis Public Library is once again opening its drawers to help residents grow their own food and flowers.

Beginning March 1, free vegetable, herb, and flower seeds will be available at all 26 Library locations throughout Indianapolis, and on the bookmobile. Seeds will be distributed through September (while supplies last), with a limit of five packets per visit.

What started in 2014 as a single-branch initiative at Glendale has grown into a systemwide program serving neighborhoods across the city. Today, the Seed Library supports backyard gardeners, apartment dwellers with container plants, first-time growers, and seasoned horticulturalists alike.

The program promotes food access, sustainability, and neighborhood resilience by helping residents grow fresh produce at home. The Library also offers educational workshops, seed-starting guides, seasonal calendars, and gardening programs throughout the growing season.

“The Seed Library is a resource for residents who want to try their hand at gardening, whether they have a backyard or just a small space for container plants,” said Jill Edwards, adult programming specialist at The Indianapolis Public Library. “Many people are wanting to try their hand at gardening, whether as a hobby or to save on their grocery bill. This service gives those who visit the branches a free and easy way to do exactly that, and we’re glad that it has spread out to the rest of the branches.”

Seeds available this year include a wide variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, beans, cucumbers, and squash; herbs including basil, cilantro, and thyme; and pollinator-friendly flowers such as sunflowers, coneflowers, and Indiana wildflower blends.

The packaging and distribution of the seeds is made possible by The Indianapolis Foundation Library Fund through a grant to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.

Community members can visit any Library branch to explore available seeds or learn more at indypl.org/seeds.

Contact Austin Goss at media@indypl.org for press inquiries.