Seed Library launches at Springhill branch through partnership with LSU AgCenter
Springhill, LA — The Webster Parish Libraries are excited to announce that something new is taking root in the community. The Seed Library initiative is a collaborative effort led by John Monzingo, LSU AgCenter Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, and Dr. Shakera Williams, LSU AgCenter Nutrition and Community Health Agent, who are working alongside the Springhill branch library staff to bring hands-on educational opportunities to the community. Together, the partnership combines agricultural expertise, education, and library resources to support sustainable practices and community wellness.
The Seed Library will provide patrons with free access to a variety of seeds, along with educational resources to support successful planting and growing. By combining gardening with learning opportunities, the Seed Library encourages families, youth, and adults to explore where food comes from, build practical gardening skills, and develop healthier connections to nature and nutrition all while engaging with their local library.
This initiative reflects a shared commitment between the Webster Parish Libraries and the LSU AgCenter to support community wellness, sustainability, and education. Libraries have long served as hubs for knowledge and discovery, and the addition of a Seed Library expands that mission by offering hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that extend beyond traditional books and materials.
To celebrate the launch of the Seed Library, the Springhill Branch will host a special “Roots and Reads” program during Spring Break, offering interactive planting sessions for multiple age groups. These sessions are designed to introduce participants to the basics of gardening in a fun, engaging, and supportive environment.
During each Roots and Reads session, participants will select seeds and plant them in seed trays that will remain at the library while the seeds begin to germinate. Library staff and LSU AgCenter representatives will be present to guide participants through the planting process, explain proper care, and share age-appropriate gardening and nutrition tips. Once the seedlings have grown, participants will be invited to return to the library at a later date to re-pot their plants into one-gallon grow bags provided by the LSU AgCenter, allowing them to continue caring for their plants at home.
The Roots and Reads program is open to all and is structured to meet the needs of different age groups, encouraging family participation and intergenerational learning.
Roots and Reads Program Schedule:
- Wednesday, April 8 at 10:00 a.m. – Adults
- Thursday, April 9 at 10:00 a.m. – Ages 0–7
- Thursday, April 9 at 11:00 a.m. – Ages 8 and up
No registration is required for these programs.
The Seed Library and Roots and Reads program aims to inspire curiosity, build confidence in gardening, and foster a sense of stewardship for the environment. In addition, the initiative supports nutrition education efforts by encouraging participants to grow their own food and develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
Community members are encouraged to visit the Springhill Branch, explore the Seed Library, and take part in this exciting new opportunity. Whether patrons are experienced gardeners or just getting started, the Seed Library offers a welcoming space to learn, grow, and connect.
