Address and Hours
1102 McConnell Rd, Woodstock, IL 60098 Days and Hours: Mon-Thur 9 AM to Noon
Library Organization
The library is organized by vegetables, herbs, natives, and flowers, both annual and
perennial. The collection of seeds varies greatly and is constantly changing due to
donations and borrows. There is no current inventory list available.
How to borrow seeds
- Review the seeds that the library has available and make your selection. You can take an entire packet, if one is available, or ask for a specific number of seeds. You can request a photocopy of each type you requested that is not in a full packet to take with you, so that you know all relevant information. You may also take a photocopy of the seed packet with your phone.
- Fill out a checkout form provided to you with each of the seeds you have. The volunteer will file it.
- Let the volunteer who is working with you know if you plan to return seeds from the plants that you grow or if you want to donate seeds from other plants you may have. There will be an additional information form given to you at this time if you select to donate seeds. If you donate unopened packets of seeds no additional information is needed.
You can also view the following video from U of I Extension for tips on saving seeds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJQsUshlemI&t=1633s
Or this one, from The Land Conservancy of McHenry County "How to Collect and Sow Native Plant Seeds" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmHSPgMP16I
If you are interested in collecting native seeds, you can read more about collecting native seeds here.
Additional Resources
Are my seeds still good?
Have you ever found a packet of seeds lying around and wondered if you could grow them? Fortunately, there is an easy way to test your seeds to see if planting them will be worthwhile.
Vegetable Garden Planting Guide for McHenry County
Learn more about what month you should plant your vegetables in McHenry County with this easy guide!
Growing cool season vegetables
For many, gardening takes place in the summer. However, for a growing number of gardeners, we are growing in the garden nearly all year long!
Vegetable gardening with raised beds
Whether for convenience or accessibility, raised beds are a popular option for growing fruits, vegetables, or ornamental plants. Raised bed structures elevate the soil, and with it comes a variety of advantages for growing plants.
