University library feeds more than the mind thanks to free veg seed giveaway

The University of Leicester’s growing reputation has been bolstered with a scheme which allows its library members to take out seeds, as well as books.

Students, staff and members of the public who have joined the campus library can order free packets of vegetable seeds after the University signed up to Leicester City Council’s Seed Library initiative. The scheme is a partnership with The Conservation Volunteers charity.

Suitable for planting in the garden, patio, pots and on window ledges, the seeds offer the perfect opportunity to take the first steps to horticultural success.

Professor Dan Ladley, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Head of College and Executive Dean of the University of Leicester School of Business said: “The Seed Library is a fantastic initiative which offers our library members the opportunity to grow their own vegetables, which are great for our health and incredibly cost effective. The process of growing your own is something which can also be beneficial for a person's wellbeing.

"I'd like to thank the City Council and The Conservation Volunteers for their support and encourage our students, staff and members of the public who are members of our library to put their orders in as soon as possible, while stocks last."

Library members can choose up to three packets of seeds from the following list. All are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, while stocks last.

The spring selection seeds available now are for:
Spring onions
Edible flowers - nasturtium or calendula
Runner beans (stringless variety)
Dwarf French beans.

Closer to autumn, the following seeds will be available:
Spinach
Rocket
Summer sown onions/spring onions
Autumn sown peas
Baby carrots (Paris market variety).

The initiative has been backed by 2023 Great British Bake Off finalist, and University of Leicester chemist, Dr Josh Smalley.

Josh, who is the University’s Science Communication and Engagement Champion, plans to post some online recipes using what he’s grown from the seed library, later this year.

Josh said: “I can’t wait to pick up and get growing with my seeds from Leicester seed library. This is such a great initiative and you don’t even need a garden for it, as the seeds available are suitable for planting in pots or on a window ledge. So, anyone can get involved.

“As I grow along I will be posting photos of the progress, then when harvesting time comes I will share few recipes that will hopefully inspire people on how to use their produce.

“It just goes to show that gardening is for everyone – and whether you’re a student, a seasoned grower or a novice, all you need is library membership to be able to get your hands on some free seeds and get started.” 

Assistant city mayor Cllr Vi Dempster, who is responsible for libraries, public health, allotments and community growing, said: “Our seed library has been running for three years now and it’s great to be able to welcome the University of Leicester on board.

“This initiative is also an important part of the Let’s Get Growing community growing programmes that take place across the city, which we know not only provide people with healthy, home-grown produce, but are also hugely valued as a great way to boost your mental wellbeing, keep active and meet other people.

“Using your library membership to get growing means you can also take advantage of other library resources, such as our wide range of books, e-books and magazines that offer tips and advice on gardening.

“We’re very grateful to The Conservation Volunteers for helping us select the seeds to provide, and to Josh and the University of Leicester for joining the scheme.”

To claim seeds, library members can call 0116 454 0290 or visit the University’s David Wilson Library to place an order, stating which three packets of seeds they would like. The University library will be taking orders from Monday 24 March. Seeds can also be requested and collected from Leicester’s libraries – find out more on the Leicester City Council’s website.

In February, the University announced it was opening up its library to the public, as part of an initiative also including De Montfort and Loughborough universities, the city and county councils, and Rutland County Council.