Knowledge Base

Rochester Public Library Seed Library Open House 2026 

February 23, 2026 – ROCHESTER, MINN. – The Rochester Public Library Seed Library officially kicks off for 2026 on Saturday, February 28, with the Growing Together: Seed Library Open House from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 

The RPL Seed Library and over 10,000 seed packets return for its eighth year. 

“We are again offering seeds for people to grow food. We have a variety of seeds for vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers. We encourage people to grow food and share with their family and friends,” says RPL Head of Reference, Sara Patalita. 

At this year’s Open House, visitors will learn about the Seed Library, bring home seeds (up to 10 packets per person), complete a scavenger hunt, create garden art, enjoy family-friendly science-based activities, or drop in for a scheduled speaker. 

Schedule of events in Library Auditorium 

• 10:30 a.m. Grow Your Garden Science Storytime 

• 11:30 a.m. Your City, Your Future: Sustainability in Rochester 

• 1:30 p.m. RCTC S.M.A.R.T Garden  

• 3:30 p.m. Village Agricultural Cooperative - local rice farming 

“The community just loves having access to the Seed Library. We want to help promote health and wellness through gardening. We have books, of course, and can connect people with local resources for many options for both education and experience,” mentions Patalita. 

The library is also hosting a Community Read of “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle” by Barbara Kingsolver on March 21, at 3 p.m.   

For more information about the Seed Library, visit rplmn.org/seed