Seed Library

Ongoing

Patrons can borrow seeds for vegetables, herbs, and flowers through the self‑serve Seed Library located at the Central Branch.

Someone pours peas out of seed packet into open hands

The Victoria Seed Library is a community project that gives people free seeds of native plants and plants that do well in our region. The project supports local food knowledge, biodiversity, and food security across Greater Victoria. As of 2021, more than 730 members have joined.

How it works

Patrons can borrow seeds for vegetables, herbs, and flowers through the self‑serve Seed Library located at the Central Branch. We ask that each library user take no more than three seed packets to ensure enough supplies for everyone. 

Thank you

Thank you to our community partner, LifeCycles, which coordinates volunteers to keep the seed libraries running by testing seed germination rates, hosting workshops, and growing the collection.

Overhead view of hand adding various seeds to different packages.

Seed workshops

LifeCycles hosts different seed saving workshops and information sessions where you can learn to grow plants, save seeds, and become a more confident gardener.


Seed growing guide

Check out our cheat sheet on what seeds grow best depending on your skill level, amount of space, or sun you have access to.


Donate seeds

Seed donations help keep the Seed Library growing. Donating seeds allows more people to grow their own food, while also protecting biodiversity and strengthening locally adapted seed stock. 

Donate seeds at a seed donation box located at all GVPL branches.