Over 100 participants signed up for our virtual seed library event this past month, “From The Ground Up: Everything You Need to Know About Seed Libraries.”

The event launched with an inspiring film screening of the documentary “The Seeds of Vandana Shiva.” The film, which shares the story of Vandana Shiva’s life, was viewed by over 200 people with live screenings in New Westminster, Chilliwack, Kamloops, Lillooet and Victoria. An online screening was also available to virtual participants.

People were noticeably fired up after the live events, and it set a great stage to learn and share about the emergence of seed libraries across the province and beyond.

Librarians who coordinate seed libraries within their library systems shared insights and lessons they have learned along the way. Participants learned about the importance of libraries for saving heritage seeds. They also dove deep into seed saving specifics of brassicas, biennials and many other crops people were passionate about.

With 25-40 participants per session, we could answer many questions and have lively discussions. The event created the space for sharing advice, tips, tricks and mistakes to avoid in different parts of the seed library journey.

Thanks so much to all those who took part!

Here is some direct feedback from participants:

• “I found hearing … what went well, what didn’t, and what was learned, to be incredibly valuable.”
• “I feel empowered and equipped to move forward with this information!”
• “Bob has a great way of encouraging new seed savers and new seed library custodians that we are doing it right”
• “The generous and honest sharing of experience and materials was awesome!”

Please reach out if you would like to have your seed library added to our directory or if you have any other seed library questions.

Funding in part for this program was provided by Vancouver Foundation and the BC Government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food.